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DBMA Martial Arts Forum => Martial Arts Topics => Topic started by: Guide Dog on May 07, 2008, 09:02:14 AM

Title: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on May 07, 2008, 09:02:14 AM
I don't know if this is too warm and fuzzy for DBMA.  I know that constantly dwelling in nothing but hard, cold reality can often lead to fatalism, so I'll try this:  

Recently, I was reminded many cultures in the world teach that a daily expression of gratitude can serve to "build up a storehouse for when adversity comes, because you know it is going to come", as a peer stated so powerfully last weekend.  

So, this thread is quite simple: try to post one thing a day for which you are grateful.  It can be big or small.

Today, I am grateful for my health and the ability to walk, run, and challenge myself on a physical basis.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on May 09, 2008, 06:28:35 PM
Woof All:

This thread was started by Guide Dog on the DBMA Ass'n forum too, and there it has hit the ground running.  If "warm and fuzzy" feels weird, feel free to be humorous.

TAC,
CD
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on May 09, 2008, 11:31:13 PM
Today I am grateful for the promise of a new opportunity that has come my way.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on May 10, 2008, 06:32:41 AM
I am grateful for the time yesterday when my 5 year old daughter played iwth "Magna-stix" on floor of my office as I worked and for the time I had pitching to my son before dinner with my daughter chasing the balls he hit on her scooter and brining them to me; the wonderful dinner that my wife cooked, and our time together as a family.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Hawke on May 11, 2008, 06:18:11 PM
Reminded of a John Wooden quote, ""You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you."

A kind sincere word is free to give and can definitely put a smile on a fellow human being.

I am grateful for being raised by a loving mom.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on May 11, 2008, 08:06:45 PM
I like that quote.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Doug Sutton on May 11, 2008, 08:43:39 PM
Great thread!  I'm grateful to have had the pleasure of meeting and training with Guro Crafty and for the group of guys back in Illinois that I had the pleasure of training with for a short time.  I feel great knowing that they are continuing on this path and have stayed committed to their training. 

I'm grateful for my health!!  Late last year, I was having anxiety, stress, and a fluttering sensation in my heart and had gotten out of shape, focusing too much on work.  I went to a cardiologist who performed a nuclear stress test where they put radioactive dye in the blood and the test came back saying that I had at least a 70% blockage in my LAD (at 33 years old).  They scheduled an angiogram and I had applied a lot of meditative disciplines and visualization techniques that I believe in and long story short, when they went in there for the procedure, they found nothing!  I'm still taking medication to get my cholesterol and blood pressure in check however have full intentions of being off of all meds by the end of the year.

I'm also grateful for my new career and for the positive contribution that I'm able to make in people's lives as a result.  Part of what we do is have our clients do gratitude statements so this is very much in alignment with that and it's amazing how this process creates positive momentum in people's lives.  What we give energy to grows, what we appreciate, appreciates.

Wishing you all the best,
Doug
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on May 11, 2008, 10:51:05 PM
Today, I am grateful for my mother.  Without her, I would not be.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: David on May 12, 2008, 01:30:23 AM
Great thread!  I'm grateful to have been born in a free and prosperous country with many paths to happiness, for my wife, dog, family, and to live in a safe environment.

Expanding on the quote Hawke provided, I wish everyone would do a little bit for those that are less fortunate than we are.  There are such a great number of people born without the freedoms most of us had/have, with no or bad education, no rights, limited food sources, etc.  The people in Myanmar are having a horrible time now, and I hope more people will come to their aid.  Helping others makes the world a better place, and makes you feel good, even if they never know who you are.

David
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on May 12, 2008, 11:46:00 AM
Today, I am grateful for the world right outside of the room in which I work.  I know it is waiting for me when I finish my workday.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Maxx on May 12, 2008, 11:56:16 AM
Today I am grateful that I woke up. It's not alot but if I didnt wake up then that would be pretty bad.  :|
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on May 12, 2008, 12:01:43 PM
I am grateful that my daughter played for a couple of hours before school (she starts at 11:15) on my office floor this morning with "Magna-Stix" while I worked.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Hawke on May 12, 2008, 05:04:41 PM
I am grateful for my friends and family that hang in there with me during hard times.

Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on May 13, 2008, 09:47:04 AM
Today I am grateful for the sum total of my 29 years on this Earth.  I am grateful for the people that have passed in and out of my life.  I am grateful for the places that I have been, and the places that I have not yet had a chance to visit that are calling me.  I am grateful for all of the things that have happened to me, great and terrible, because without them, I would not be who I am, and I am actually starting to like myself a bit after all these years (I don't mean that in an arrogant way).  I am grateful for the things that I have had the chance to do.

I know that nothing is guaranteed, but if live expectancy keeps going up, hopefully I will two more whole sets of the years that have gone by.  That's a long time!  I know that it flies and it crawls, simultaneously it seems, but I  am grateful for the promise of time.  If it turns out that it is my time sooner than that, than I am grateful for the time I had.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on May 14, 2008, 08:10:25 AM
Today, I am grateful my parents raised me in such a way that I can think about others.  I am grateful that they raised me to have manners and to treat people fairly.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on May 15, 2008, 08:07:11 AM
Today, I am grateful for the sense that the world can sometimes feel small, in the sense that it's nice to run into good people that remember you and that you in turn remember.  I'm grateful for the feeling that sometimes I make a favorable impression and that people like seeing me.  It's nice to meet good folks that you keep running into here and there.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Jonobos on May 15, 2008, 10:07:53 AM
I am grateful for my training partners and instructors who know how to motivate me to train hard, while still allowing me to be myself and act like a goofball at times  :-D
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on May 15, 2008, 01:19:56 PM
I am grateful for getting to watch part of Guro Inosanto's yoga jitsu lesson with Roger Machado this morning. Some real gems of wisdom floating in the air  8-)
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: ponytotts on May 15, 2008, 04:23:46 PM
for my voice and music. that i can make a living from my passion.
for my sons.
that love hurts sometimes when you do it right.

Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Growling Dog on May 15, 2008, 09:28:17 PM
Ok this one happened a two weeks ago but I am still grateful,
As I was driving Sled Dog to the seminar on May 3rd I was pulled over for having a busted tail light right in front of the seminar location so as Phil and the rest of the guys went into the gym I got to spend some quality time with the officer. Now I am grateful for the officer not giving me a ticket and I am also grateful that he used to train with my instructor and he was very grateful when I told him I would give him a discount on the upcoming Crafty Dog seminar in July.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on May 16, 2008, 07:59:36 AM
Today, I am grateful for days like yesterday.  It was Thursday and I spent most of the day wishing it was Friday.  Work was decidedly...work, and then it was over.  Even training just sort of was...

BUT, no one in my family was sick.  There were no maintenance issues in my home.  My car was running just fine.  It was REALLY hot, but that led to a feeling of anticipation for summer and summer vacation.  We need to appreciate those days that feel mundane, but in reality are good days, because everything is as it should be.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Maxx on May 16, 2008, 08:48:20 AM
Today I am showing gratitude that it is Friday and Sunday is almost here. Sunday I get to train at Guide Dogs and get a free grapple with Rio!

Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Hawke on May 17, 2008, 08:45:28 AM
I am grateful that my car has air conditioning.  :-D

Grateful for all the amazing teachers that are pouring into my life at the moment.

Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on May 18, 2008, 08:51:22 AM
I am grateful that the edit for our "Dos Triques" DVD is finally done!!!
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Hawke on May 19, 2008, 10:07:58 PM
Grateful for understanding professors.

Friends that I can share martial art knowledge for mutual benefit without having to deal with egos.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on May 20, 2008, 06:17:09 AM
Grateful for my son keeping me company during yesterday's KB workout and for our game of Scrabble afterwords.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on May 20, 2008, 08:19:52 AM
Today, as a school teacher, I am glad that it is almost June.   :lol:
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: michael on May 20, 2008, 03:53:33 PM
I am grateful that one of my co-workers, a police officer where I used to work and was shot today, is stable as of this writing and undergoing surgery. He was shot multiple times in the chest, but was apparently conscious and talking upon arrival at the hospital. This is the second time he has been shot.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on May 22, 2008, 08:07:42 AM
Today, I am grateful to have finished a paper for grad. school that I (how lame of me) left for the last moment.  The paper actually ended up coming out quite nice, and I submitted it electronically with ten minutes to spare!  That paper will be used for a seminar later this month in which I will try to get closer to fleshing out a topic for my dissertation.  I actually am quite proud of my product, despite having left it for the end!

Also, I posted this last night on the members' board, but my sad little dying computer at home crashed before I could post this here, and it was pretty late, so I gave up.  This is a bit embarrassing but here goes:

Quote
To be honest, tonight I was trying to demo a piece of material that I thought I had a better handle on.  I screwed up and ended up falling on my neck and head.  This was on a mat, but I was still lucky.  I am grateful that I did not break my neck or seriously injure myself.

My head and neck are a bit stiff today, but I'm okay, and still grateful.  :-P
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Kaju Dog on May 22, 2008, 01:16:17 PM
I am greatfull for having found out that all my hard work and studying has paid off.

Today I was notified that I passed my E-5 exam and picked up 2nd class Petty Officer.

*I am one of two people in the entire hospital that was promoted to HM2.

 :-D :-D :-D

Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Hawke on May 22, 2008, 09:02:35 PM
I am grateful for study buddies since my finals are coming up.

Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Tony Torre on May 23, 2008, 07:54:51 AM
I am grateful for this thread.  Today had the makings of a real shitty day.  After reading this thread I put things in perspective and improved the day.  Thanks guys! :-D

Tony Torre
Miami Arnis Group
www.miamiarnisgroup.com
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on May 23, 2008, 09:46:19 AM
Congratulations Dog Dean!

Yesterday I was grateful to watch my son's growth in his hockey practice.  Happy, proud dad!

This morning I am grateful for my chess game with my daughter.  She plays an excellent game for a girl who is still five.  Again, happy and proud dad!
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Poidog on May 26, 2008, 01:44:28 PM
Today, I am thankful for the men and women, far better than myself, who gave their lives in service of this great country.

-- Poi
Title: The man in the parking lot
Post by: Crafty_Dog on May 28, 2008, 05:17:24 PM
About two months ago, my wife took her children along with her to the supermarket.  As she approached the van, a large aggressive panhandler came out from behind the van.  Her maternal spidersense tingled strongly.  The panhandler kept spewing his approach patter as she hustled our children behind her and sought to assert her space.  One of the men who worked for the supermarket happened to be outside and saw what happened.  Immediately and forcefully he got into the panhandler's face and ran him completely out of the parking lot.  My wife thanked him and came home.

That evening she told me of this Adventure in her day.  Inside I felt somehow wrong that I had not been there.  Foolish of course, but still, there it was.

When she was done I asked her to describe the man who had helped her.

For the past two months, I have looked for a man of that description whenever I was in the supermarket.  A couple of days ago I saw a man who matched the description helping another customer.  He carried himself with quiet dignity and pride in his work.  I waited for him to finish and approached and asked him if he had helped a woman of a certain height and hair color with children deal with an aggressive panhandler a couple of months ago.  He said he had.  "I'm the husband of that woman and the father of those children.  I want to shake your hand in thanks." 

As we shook hands I could sense his emotions at this unexpected moment in his workday.  Then a thought crossed his face as it crossed his mind.  "How did you know it was me?"

"I asked my wife for your description so I could personally thank you."

"Oh, the black guy" he guessed.

Actually the description had been slender build, about 60 years old, black, dignified-- but of course he was right that this had been part of the description-- a bummer that this touched something sad in him.   As he was there in front of me I sensed he had grown up in a different time and place-- a time and place where race could sneak up and ding a man if he weren't careful. 

Moving the conversation along, I repeated in my thanks in different words and we became simply one man thanking another for stepping forward to protect his family.  We shook hands again and I could feel his quiet pride as I walked away. 

And I felt whole for expressing my gratitude to him.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Scott on May 29, 2008, 10:22:34 AM
A long time ao, I was doing some work with a Social-Work agency that specialized in violent behaviors.  In the small amount of time that I was there, I met one of the young people in the program that was able to turn her life around and work towards climbing out of the shit-hole that her drug-addled parents dug for her.  Before I had finished my work there, she was found murdered in a cemetary, disembowelled and strewn about the place in an effort to make it look like some sort of occult ritual.
Today, I heard on the news that the lead detective never gave up.  Nearly 17 years later (yesterday, to be more specific), he broke the case and made an arrest.
I am thankful for every Officer that does not let the passage of time dilute the desire to see justice served!
  ~Scott
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Tony Torre on June 02, 2008, 10:33:42 AM
Today I am grateful for my sons beautiful little smile as he tries to throw me kisses but only manages to blow bubbles.  I am also thankful for my wife, my rock, who encourages me when nobody else will.

Tony Torre
Miami Arnis Group
www.miamiarnisgroup.com
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on June 02, 2008, 10:15:49 PM
I am grateful for the people whom I trained today and for my wife who takes care of our children while I do so.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Tony Torre on June 04, 2008, 06:12:25 AM
Today I am grateful for my son waking up at 5 A.M. to tell me" I love you."  Even though to every one else it sounds like EEEEEEEEEh! AAAAAAIIIIIII!  I am grateful for the extra hour or so this affords me to play with him.

Tony Torre
Miami Arnis Group
www.miamiarnisgroup.com
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Tony Torre on June 05, 2008, 04:05:16 PM
Today I'm grateful for my new student who's private class fee will allow me to finish  paying for the next 2 months of day care for my son.  I'm also grateful that my mother was able to meet and recognize her grandson before her dimentia completely takes over. 

Tony Torre
Miami Arnis Group
www.miamiarnisgroup.com
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on June 09, 2008, 11:12:54 PM
A few weeks ago, I fractured my right foot.  I have been off of the forum for a few weeks, because I have been bummed out.  The first doctor told me that I would be on crutches for 6 - 8 weeks.  No pressure on the broken foot.  The orthopedic doctor told me that the first doctor was crazy, and that he wanted me to start weening myself off of the crutches.  So, last week I attended all 40 hours of the Legends Camp at the Inosanto Academy, just with no kicking of any kind.  This week, I need to get my training group back together and start getting back in shape.  I am grateful that a summer of training that I have not been planning has not been blown by a broken foot.  I am also grateful for this forum, and I intend to get back on and remain active.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Scotty Dog on June 11, 2008, 03:42:17 AM
I'm gratefull today of my friends and the distance some of them stay from me,

it makes the times we do meet up all the more meaningfull
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on June 11, 2008, 05:12:02 AM
I have been in Louisiana since June 1st.  Normally things move right along for me, but until last night I had defecated only 3 times in 8 days. :-o  So I am quite grateful for the laxative I took before dinner last night  , , ,  :lol:
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on June 11, 2008, 08:14:40 AM
Today, I am grateful that my son will never have to go to the school at which I teach.  I am also grateful for the fact that academic years come to an end.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Scotty Dog on June 12, 2008, 02:01:30 AM
today I'm gratefull for my work giving me tomorrow off to sit an exam in college, and for my wife for being close enough to my work today to meet me for lunch.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on June 12, 2008, 09:21:45 AM
Today, I am grateful that it is the last day that my students will be on campus.  Let the summer begin!   :-D
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: michael on June 12, 2008, 01:48:44 PM
Today I am grateful for an unexpected day off with pay, and for the bonus I did not know about that I will receive July 1.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on June 12, 2008, 07:03:12 PM
Today I am grateful for the 77 year old chiropractor living up some back Louisiana road who adjusted my back and for the conversation thereafter with his lovely wife and him.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on June 13, 2008, 02:58:26 PM
I try not to live my life by planning for happiness, "I'll be happy when I ...".  You can plan your whole life away.  That being said, I have been saying for a while now, "I'll be happy when this school year ends."  Today, I am happy and grateful because the 07-08 school year (I teach 7-8th grade) has ended.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Kaju Dog on June 16, 2008, 03:14:18 PM
Im greatfull that one of my treasured students and friend purchased the DB's "Reality Stickfighting" DVD series recently and came into the base gym this morning sporting his DB's T-shirt.   :mrgreen:

Looking forward to growing together in this area. 

He (Jeremy) is a motivated student and trains with his wife in my KajuPit MMA class.  She (Kat *Yes thats her name) is the Public Affairs Officer and loves to bang with the boys.  Last time Jeremy and Kat sparred, she was held in a near submission, until she bit her husband, Jeremy and forced him to let up.   :-D 8-) :-D

My kind of couple...  LOL

For them, I am greatfull.

I now have a potential of 3 comming to play at the Aug Gathering along with myself.


WOOF!

Dog Dean 8-)
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Hawke on June 16, 2008, 05:59:31 PM
Grateful for the summer break between classes.

Grateful for public computers at the libraries until my PC can be resurrected.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Scotty Dog on June 17, 2008, 02:53:11 AM
Today I'm gratefull of a great weekend with Lonely, Col, Gerry & the Aberdeen crew (the arm's working again now btw, Ibuprofen's a great thing )

I'm also grateful that I've got my results, I've passed my Higher English & will be starting Uni on September 22nd 
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Point Dog on June 17, 2008, 10:26:45 AM
Today I'm gratefull of a great weekend with Lonely, Col, Gerry & the Aberdeen crew (the arm's working again now btw, Ibuprofen's a great thing )

I'm also grateful that I've got my results, I've passed my Higher English & will be starting Uni on September 22nd 

Congrats Hig!  :-D

I am grateful that Hig passed his exam, when he's cranky about stuff like that he hits harder  :wink:
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Kaju Dog on June 17, 2008, 11:10:52 AM
I am greatfull that my daughter Mysti (9y/o) requested (for the millionth time) that she start her "Official Training" with me.  She has played along side of me since age 2 and has always had fun trying to be like "Daddy".  I have never made it a requirement for my little ones to train, and I have made them all ask repeatedly with me saying "Not Yet, when the time is right and you are ready, I will teach you".

I am proud to say, "You are ready!" to my Mysti.

She trained privately with me for 1hr last night.  We covered her boxing stance and proper alignment.  She worked basic boxing punches on both the "Clapper and Focus Mitts" then we worked some basic strikes with single and double sticks.  Caveman, Punyan (hammer fist strike), and broken 6 w/ 2 sticks while working on replacement stepping.

I AM ONE PROUD PAPA!  When I told her that she is starting a year younger than Bruce Lee started, her eyes lit up...   :-D 8-)


PS
CONGRATULATIONS HIG!

Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Scotty Dog on June 17, 2008, 11:16:54 PM
Thanks for the Congrats  :-D Starting to feel nervous now it's "real" all of a sudden

Dog Dean, Can't wait to be in the same position with my 5 year old, we play about & he's got his own padded stick to smack daddy with, but I'm looking forward to him wanting to do it properly.

Today I'm grateful for they guys I work with, who are already trying to organise my leaving do (I'm taking that as a sign I'll be missed, rather than they're trying to get rid of me  :wink: )
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on June 18, 2008, 06:20:15 AM
While I was on the road, while allowing someone to pass my guard I got overstacked and my left hip went out.  Dull, aching pain for several days, lessened by my remedial actions, but there nonetheless.  Back home now, today I am grateful for my absolutely wonderful chiropractor of many years, Dr. Shelly Bosten.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on June 18, 2008, 03:17:01 PM
I am grateful for the weekend that I just spent with my family (wife, son, sister in law) in Las Vegas.  We stayed at Circus Circus and it was a nice, family oriented time.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on June 19, 2008, 03:21:23 PM
Today, I am grateful for some downtime with which to organize my home.  That may read as minor to some, but it mens a lot to me.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on June 20, 2008, 10:17:43 PM
Today, I am grateful for a new computer, which is set up and running very well as I type this!
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on June 21, 2008, 07:36:06 AM
I am deeply grateful for the conversation with my son last night as we walked the dog.  Likewise for the joy in buying my daughter a wonderful bicycle for her sixth birthday and seeing the joy in her as she sat on it and believed for the first time that she could learn to ride it.  Today is her birthday party-- a pool party with some 20+ children coming to play.

Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on June 21, 2008, 10:35:21 AM
As I typed another post, my wife walked in with my 14 month old son in a laundry basket and said, "Hi daddy, here's your laundry."  My boy was grinning from ear to ear.  I appreciate the little moments.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on June 22, 2008, 01:49:55 PM
Today, I am honestly grateful for some time to work on some graduate papers.  Today, Guro Crafty was supposed to have a seminar at Surf Dog's, but it is going to be rescheduled.  So, I am grateful for not having missed out on that, while having the chance to plow through some work at home.   :-)
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on June 23, 2008, 01:14:54 AM
Today, I am grateful for the chance to spend the summer with my son, who is about to turn 14 months old on Tuesday.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Scotty Dog on June 23, 2008, 01:40:23 AM
Today I'm greatfull that a member of my group sent me a text message to let me know I'm in a DBMA promo clip  8-) :-D 8-)

It may not be my best fight, but at least, in the words of Guide Dog, "I helped a Brother have someone on which to do something cool "
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: rachelg on June 25, 2008, 06:52:37 PM
I'm very grateful for my new washer and dyer. They are so pretty and shiny and energy efficient and they actually work.   
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on June 25, 2008, 08:47:18 PM
 :lol:
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Kaju Dog on June 25, 2008, 09:55:37 PM
I am greatfull that my friend and Brother in MA's notified me that he and I are in FMA Digest Vol 5 #3 along with many of MY  HEROES!   :-D 8-)

Pg 55-56

http://www.fmadigest.com/Issues/current/Vol5_No3.pdf (http://www.fmadigest.com/Issues/current/Vol5_No3.pdf)

Howl
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Scotty Dog on June 26, 2008, 03:12:02 AM
I'm gratefull for the anniversary dinner my wife made us last night, the chance to watch "UnderDog the Movie" with my kids after it & the fact my arms feeling good for the UK sparring day on Saturday
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: maija on June 26, 2008, 06:19:41 AM
I am grateful for the precious time I spent with my teacher Maestro Sonny Umpad who would have turned 60 today.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on June 26, 2008, 06:40:53 AM
Woof Dog Dean:

I am glad to see that GM Estalilla is well.  Please give him my regards.

yip!
CD
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on June 27, 2008, 08:40:48 AM
Today, I am grateful for a unique training opportunity!
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Kaju Dog on June 27, 2008, 01:04:49 PM
Im thankfull for my Dr. rescheduling my Knee surgery to Aug 12th.  Now, I wont have to come to the Gatherng on crutches.     :mrgreen:

Post Op, is non-weight bearing for 4-6 weeks.    :cry:

such is life...  Looking forward to Aug   :evil:  :roll:
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: John Partika on June 27, 2008, 04:46:15 PM
Today I am thankful for having the ability to sleep in after a long week of work. And for the fact I will be able to attend my submission grappling class tonight after almost 2 weeks without a Friday session.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Tony Torre on June 28, 2008, 06:54:44 AM
Today I'm grateful for the wonderful support structures I have in my life.  My boss who's patience, generosity and kindness are an example to live by.  My students who show me how much the care in the nicest ways.  My wife who's never ceases to amaze me.  My son who's little smile cheers me up even when I'm in the foulest of moods. 

Tony Torre
Miami Arnis Group
www.miamiarnisgroup.com
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: TomFurman on June 28, 2008, 06:40:59 PM
Today I am happy for the spirit of giving, and the friends and posse who came through when I asked them to. Everyone was beyond belief.

--Tom Furman
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on June 28, 2008, 06:51:51 PM
Today, I am grateful for the pace of yesterday and today.  I was able to attend a great training session yesterday, a baseball game in the evening for my sister-in-law's birthday, and today I had a very productive day in grad. school.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on June 29, 2008, 05:30:33 PM
Today, I am grateful for all of the opportunities in my life, particularly my education.  If I have expressed any disappointment about money recently, I take it back.  I am very lucky in many ways, and I need to appreciate all that I have.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Hawke on June 30, 2008, 11:04:02 PM
Today I am grateful for a caring professor to help my journey into the physical therapy world (still at least 2-3 years away before I qualify to apply).

Also grateful for a caring family.

Also grateful for a very cool email from Guro Marc.

I am grateful for many things.

Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Tony Torre on July 01, 2008, 06:19:04 AM
Today I am grateful for the opportunity I've been given to work for a man I wish to be more like.  His wisdom is only exceeded by his kindness. 

Tony Torre
Miami Arnis Group
www.miamiarnisgroup.com
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Mr.Happy on July 01, 2008, 06:22:30 AM
I am grateful that i have the ability to learn from failure and even if i learn nothing i am grateful that i can try again.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on July 01, 2008, 09:29:00 AM
I am profoundly grateful for a quiet stretch in my work that allows me to enjoy my family.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on July 01, 2008, 02:34:39 PM
Today, I am grateful for the experiences of my life that have allowed me to be who I am.  I had an experience today that made me sit back and say to myself, "You know, I'm a fairly interesting person."  I mean that with no arrogance.  It's nice to like who you are, and I am grateful for the experiences, good and bad, that have made me who I am.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: John Partika on July 01, 2008, 03:34:08 PM
Today I am grateful for waking up this morning, and for the cold, clean water I am drinking. I am also thankful for my private lesson with my instructor this evening.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on July 01, 2008, 06:22:27 PM
I am grateful for the HS football field up the block from my house where I can do my agility drills and wind sprints.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Scotty Dog on July 01, 2008, 10:52:05 PM
today I'm greatful for having a crappy day at work yesterday,

which led me to come home and say "don't make dinner hon, I'm taking the family for pizza to cheer myself up"

which made me feel guilty that I'd just eaten an obscene amount of pizza but haven't been training outside class since I hurt my elbow,

which made me get up early & run through my medicine ball workout  :-)

Elbow feels a little tight, but not sore which I'm taking as a good sign  8-) :-D 8-)
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on July 02, 2008, 02:01:12 PM
Today, I am grateful for the challenges in my life.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on July 02, 2008, 03:08:28 PM
For the body work a student did on me today.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on July 03, 2008, 12:51:42 PM
Today, I am grateful that it is the last (full) day of a week-long research seminar for some graduate work I am doing.  I have about two and a half pages to go on a paper, and I will be happy to turn it in and move on!  Tomorrow we debrief for a few hours in the morning, and then I am off for 4th of July fun with the family.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: John Partika on July 03, 2008, 04:05:35 PM
Today I am grateful for my friends that let me in on some info for a new job prospect, and for the hidden batteries I found for my CD player. :-P
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on July 03, 2008, 07:28:26 PM
I am grateful that a secret project with the potential to be huge for the Dog Brother mission took an important step forward today.

I am grateful for the time over at the local HS track/football field with my 6 year old daughter on her first day out and about with her new bicycle.  Happy dad.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on July 04, 2008, 07:35:43 AM
Woof All:

I am profoundly grateful for the men who wrote this, and all those who made it real.

The Adventure continues,
Crafty Dog
==========================================

The Unanimous Declaration
of the Thirteen United States of America
When in the Course of human events it becomes necessary for one people to dissolve the political bands which have connected them with another and to assume among the powers of the earth, the separate and equal station to which the Laws of Nature and of Nature's God entitle them, a decent respect to the opinions of mankind requires that they should declare the causes which impel them to the separation.

We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness. -- That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed, -- That whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the Right of the People to alter or to abolish it, and to institute new Government, laying its foundation on such principles and organizing its powers in such form, as to them shall seem most likely to effect their Safety and Happiness. Prudence, indeed, will dictate that Governments long established should not be changed for light and transient causes; and accordingly all experience hath shewn that mankind are more disposed to suffer, while evils are sufferable than to right themselves by abolishing the forms to which they are accustomed. But when a long train of abuses and usurpations, pursuing invariably the same Object evinces a design to reduce them under absolute Despotism, it is their right, it is their duty, to throw off such Government, and to provide new Guards for their future security. -- Such has been the patient sufferance of these Colonies; and such is now the necessity which constrains them to alter their former Systems of Government. The history of the present King of Great Britain is a history of repeated injuries and usurpations, all having in direct object the establishment of an absolute Tyranny over these States. To prove this, let Facts be submitted to a candid world.

He has refused his Assent to Laws, the most wholesome and necessary for the public good.

He has forbidden his Governors to pass Laws of immediate and pressing importance, unless suspended in their operation till his Assent should be obtained; and when so suspended, he has utterly neglected to attend to them.

He has refused to pass other Laws for the accommodation of large districts of people, unless those people would relinquish the right of Representation in the Legislature, a right inestimable to them and formidable to tyrants only.

He has called together legislative bodies at places unusual, uncomfortable, and distant from the depository of their Public Records, for the sole purpose of fatiguing them into compliance with his measures.

He has dissolved Representative Houses repeatedly, for opposing with manly firmness his invasions on the rights of the people.

He has refused for a long time, after such dissolutions, to cause others to be elected, whereby the Legislative Powers, incapable of Annihilation, have returned to the People at large for their exercise; the State remaining in the mean time exposed to all the dangers of invasion from without, and convulsions within.

He has endeavoured to prevent the population of these States; for that purpose obstructing the Laws for Naturalization of Foreigners; refusing to pass others to encourage their migrations hither, and raising the conditions of new Appropriations of Lands.

He has obstructed the Administration of Justice by refusing his Assent to Laws for establishing Judiciary Powers.

He has made Judges dependent on his Will alone for the tenure of their offices, and the amount and payment of their salaries.

He has erected a multitude of New Offices, and sent hither swarms of Officers to harass our people and eat out their substance.

He has kept among us, in times of peace, Standing Armies without the Consent of our legislatures.

He has affected to render the Military independent of and superior to the Civil Power.

He has combined with others to subject us to a jurisdiction foreign to our constitution, and unacknowledged by our laws; giving his Assent to their Acts of pretended Legislation:

For quartering large bodies of armed troops among us:

For protecting them, by a mock Trial from punishment for any Murders which they should commit on the Inhabitants of these States:

For cutting off our Trade with all parts of the world:

For imposing Taxes on us without our Consent:

For depriving us in many cases, of the benefit of Trial by Jury:

For transporting us beyond Seas to be tried for pretended offences:

For abolishing the free System of English Laws in a neighbouring Province, establishing therein an Arbitrary government, and enlarging its Boundaries so as to render it at once an example and fit instrument for introducing the same absolute rule into these Colonies

For taking away our Charters, abolishing our most valuable Laws and altering fundamentally the Forms of our Governments:

For suspending our own Legislatures, and declaring themselves invested with power to legislate for us in all cases whatsoever.

He has abdicated Government here, by declaring us out of his Protection and waging War against us.

He has plundered our seas, ravaged our coasts, burnt our towns, and destroyed the lives of our people.

He is at this time transporting large Armies of foreign Mercenaries to compleat the works of death, desolation, and tyranny, already begun with circumstances of Cruelty & Perfidy scarcely paralleled in the most barbarous ages, and totally unworthy the Head of a civilized nation.

He has constrained our fellow Citizens taken Captive on the high Seas to bear Arms against their Country, to become the executioners of their friends and Brethren, or to fall themselves by their Hands.

He has excited domestic insurrections amongst us, and has endeavoured to bring on the inhabitants of our frontiers, the merciless Indian Savages whose known rule of warfare, is an undistinguished destruction of all ages, sexes and conditions.

In every stage of these Oppressions We have Petitioned for Redress in the most humble terms: Our repeated Petitions have been answered only by repeated injury. A Prince, whose character is thus marked by every act which may define a Tyrant, is unfit to be the ruler of a free people.

Nor have We been wanting in attentions to our British brethren. We have warned them from time to time of attempts by their legislature to extend an unwarrantable jurisdiction over us. We have reminded them of the circumstances of our emigration and settlement here. We have appealed to their native justice and magnanimity, and we have conjured them by the ties of our common kindred to disavow these usurpations, which would inevitably interrupt our connections and correspondence. They too have been deaf to the voice of justice and of consanguinity. We must, therefore, acquiesce in the necessity, which denounces our Separation, and hold them, as we hold the rest of mankind, Enemies in War, in Peace Friends.

We, therefore, the Representatives of the united States of America, in General Congress, Assembled, appealing to the Supreme Judge of the world for the rectitude of our intentions, do, in the Name, and by Authority of the good People of these Colonies, solemnly publish and declare, That these united Colonies are, and of Right ought to be Free and Independent States, that they are Absolved from all Allegiance to the British Crown, and that all political connection between them and the State of Great Britain, is and ought to be totally dissolved; and that as Free and Independent States, they have full Power to levy War, conclude Peace, contract Alliances, establish Commerce, and to do all other Acts and Things which Independent States may of right do. -- And for the support of this Declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of Divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes, and our sacred Honor.

-- John Hancock

New Hampshire:
Josiah Bartlett, William Whipple, Matthew Thornton

Massachusetts:
John Hancock, Samuel Adams, John Adams, Robert Treat Paine, Elbridge Gerry

Rhode Island:
Stephen Hopkins, William Ellery

Connecticut:
Roger Sherman, Samuel Huntington, William Williams, Oliver Wolcott

New York:
William Floyd, Philip Livingston, Francis Lewis, Lewis Morris

New Jersey:
Richard Stockton, John Witherspoon, Francis Hopkinson, John Hart, Abraham Clark

Pennsylvania:
Robert Morris, Benjamin Rush, Benjamin Franklin, John Morton, George Clymer, James Smith, George Taylor, James Wilson, George Ross

Delaware:
Caesar Rodney, George Read, Thomas McKean

Maryland:
Samuel Chase, William Paca, Thomas Stone, Charles Carroll of Carrollton

Virginia:
George Wythe, Richard Henry Lee, Thomas Jefferson, Benjamin Harrison, Thomas Nelson, Jr., Francis Lightfoot Lee, Carter Braxton

North Carolina:
William Hooper, Joseph Hewes, John Penn

South Carolina:
Edward Rutledge, Thomas Heyward, Jr., Thomas Lynch, Jr., Arthur Middleton

Georgia:
Button Gwinnett, Lyman Hall, George Walton

 

Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Hawke on July 04, 2008, 11:44:29 AM
Today I am grateful for living in a free country.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on July 05, 2008, 10:32:51 PM
Yesterday: I could not get to a computer so, yesterday I was grateful for the amazing men and women who have served and who serve our country in the armed forces.  I was also grateful for all of those folks in law enforcement.

Today, I am grateful for my 20's, the whole decade, good and bad, as it comes to an end in about an hour and a half.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: John Partika on July 08, 2008, 02:56:32 PM
Today I am thankful for the funny rants from the ranting gryphon, and for having woken up in the middle of the afternoon.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on July 13, 2008, 11:42:11 PM
Today, I am grateful for my in-laws.  They really are a second family to me.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on July 14, 2008, 04:22:37 AM
I just finished a seminar this weekend at the Canton OH Police Department training facility.  During my three days there, the PD had a well-loved retired officer with a courageous career murdered and another officer murdered during a traffice stop.  I am grateful for the men and those women who put on the badge and go forth every day.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on July 14, 2008, 10:49:55 PM
Today, I am grateful for new beginnings.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on July 15, 2008, 06:29:26 AM
I am grateful for a fine day of training yesterday, a good night's sleep, and that I will be home with my family this evening.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: TomFurman on July 15, 2008, 08:19:06 AM
I am grateful for my incredible friends that I have met in my martial arts journey. Such texture, wisdom, and insight.

--Tom
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: lockjaw on July 15, 2008, 08:32:05 AM
Yesterday I spent 2.5 hours carefully dicing and cooking apples for my 9 month old son, which he didn't really enjoy.  Last night I set him on the kitchen table.  He picked up a nectarine out of the fruit bowl and ate most of it with his two opposable teeth, the whole time looking at his amazed family like "What?  You never had a nectarine?  You should try it."

I am grateful that my son knows what he is capable of and can prove it despite his old man.

I am grateful that he will discover wonderful things in life even if I'm too dumb to hand them to him.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Howling Dog on July 15, 2008, 10:23:02 AM
Woof, I'am VERY greatful to have had the opertunity to train with Guro Crafty for the past three days.

Two days of DLO training at the Canton Ohio seminar......and also having the privliedge of hosting him with 2 of my dedicated students for a day of personal training and gathering prep.

Hopefully this is just the begining of many trips here to our area of Ohio!
A great time and much thanks to Guro Crafty and special thanks to Pretty kitty for putting this together for us! See you and the rest of the tribe at the Aug. gathering.......The adventure truley continues!
                                                            Dog Tom
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on July 15, 2008, 12:37:10 PM
Today, I am grateful to be living in this age of technology. Last night, I took several idle hours to download some really obscure music. Today, I put the music on my I-pod and was blasting it as I drove to have lunch with some of my family.

Computers allow us to have this forum and interact with and learn from people all over the world. It also seems to me that we are starting to use some of this new technology to make the world a better place. The world is far from perfect, but this is an exciting time in which to be alive!

My son is just about 15 months old. I can hardly imagine all of the things he will see in his lifetime!
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Scotty Dog on July 16, 2008, 06:37:31 AM
I'm glad that my boss is out the office today so I've been able to listen to Bill hicks on my MP3 player while I've been stuck at my desk

Life is good
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on July 16, 2008, 01:57:57 PM
Today, I am grateful for my grandfather. He passed away in 99. Yesterday would have been his 84th birthday. I am grateful for my grandmother as well.

My grandmother is still with us, but she would never attend a Gathering. About a year ago, she had her opinions about the martial arts rocked by an article in the LA Times about MMA. She is a very supporting, loving women, but she will never "get" what it means to me to be "Guide Dog". My grandfather would have been up front, cheering for the tribe, very much in a state of understanding of why we were all there. He was also a cantor at a synagogue in Orange County, so he would have doubly appreciated that we would all be gathered together because of the life's work of a nice, Jewish boy: Guro Crafty.  :-D
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on July 17, 2008, 03:58:27 PM
Today, I am grateful for some time in which I can get my home more organized. I am also grateful that my family has been helping in the home organization project.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Tony Torre on July 17, 2008, 04:56:45 PM
Today I am grateful for my wonderful mother in law.  She comes by to visit us and play with her grandson despite having great pain from arthritis.  I am also grateful for her motherly ways to ease my pain while my own mothers health continues declining.

Tony Torre
Miami Arnis Group
www.miamiarnisgroup.com
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Scotty Dog on July 18, 2008, 01:54:47 AM
Today I'm gratefull for the coffee I bought on the way to work (I'm always amazed at how much a good cup improves my mood),
the thought of taking my son to see his 1st movie in the cinema tomorrow (Kung-Fu Panda)
and a night out with my mates tomorrow night.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on July 19, 2008, 12:43:25 AM
Today, I am grateful for my wife. She stayed home with the baby last night so that I could go out and see a midnight showing of The Dark Night, with some friends. I really enjoyed the film, but I don't see a lot of midnight showings in my future. I was wrecked for a good part of the day.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on July 20, 2008, 03:40:25 PM
Today, I am grateful that a major home organization project is starting to find an ending.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on July 20, 2008, 07:41:09 PM
I am grateful for a wonderful weekend of teaching here in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Scotty Dog on July 21, 2008, 01:08:51 AM
I'm greatfull today for yesterday spent with my wife (Kids were at the grandparent's)

Had a BBQ (yes it was finally sunny in Scotland), sat in the garden & then watched a DVD in the evening. A simple, but very, very good day.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on July 21, 2008, 12:29:47 PM
I am grateful for a new indoor fencing system, in which my 15 month old son can practice his walking.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on July 22, 2008, 08:25:01 AM

Before eating, our family has the custom of holding hands around the table and saying together "We are blessed".  Last night, Conrad suggested that each of us say for what that day he was grateful.  Great idea!  I felt very good inside that this idea occurred to him.  And we did so.  I expressed how happy I was to be home.

I would like to express my gratitude to Guide Dog for thinking to start this thread.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on July 22, 2008, 10:38:32 AM
I'm pleased that you think the thread is worthwhile, Guro.

Today I am grateful for my memories. I am transferring files from a very old computer onto a portable hard drive. When The transfer is done, I will wipe the hard drive with some software, and give the computer away. I have had the computer for about 10 years and it is filled with audio and video that is irreplaceable. I have a lot of good memories invested in that computer. It will be a little hard to see it go.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on July 23, 2008, 10:14:02 PM
Today, after traveling in a car for most of the day at high altitudes, my 15 month old son became sick and threw up in the back of the car. Neither my wife or myself expressed any anger or disappointment. Rather, I asked her if she wanted to carry in the baby or clean up the car. She opted for taking the baby inside. We set about our task of cleaning my boy, checking to make sure he was okay, and cleaning dirty clothes and automobile upholstery. While I was washing some very soiled clothes in a sink to get them ready for a journey to the washing machine, it occurred to me how grateful I am to be a father to a wonderful little boy and a husband to a great woman. If that means I have to clean up a little yuck once in a while, it's very worth it.  :-D
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on July 24, 2008, 09:06:22 PM
Today, I am grateful for all of the amazing sights nature has to offer.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on July 24, 2008, 11:05:06 PM
Today I am grateful for all the back emails I got around to (there's plenty to go) and for a great alignment session at the gym.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Scotty Dog on July 25, 2008, 02:36:54 AM
today I'm gratefull for the 1st week this year which has actually been consistently sunny in Scotland.

No jacket to work for me today & Long may it continue
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on July 25, 2008, 08:25:58 PM
Today, my wife's car battery died while we were far from home. She has a hybrid, and when we called the Automobile Club, they told us over the phone that there was no way to jump the battery. When the tow truck finally arrived, the driver had looked up a way to jump the car on the Web. I am grateful for the kind man's help, and to be able to drive away from the experience!
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Kaju Dog on July 25, 2008, 10:33:25 PM
Today I am greatfull for having a great backyard workout with the "New to me" equipment my neighbor graciously gave me.  Also, very pleased with results of my first week as LPO "Leading Petty Officer" (ie Manager) of the "Wellness Clinic" here on base.  I have a great bunch of Sailors working with and for me.  I am looking forward to progressivly improving on their high quality of care and education.  I have also been asked to be 1 of 2 people to asses and "sign off" on Basic Corpsman Medical Skills for our young Sailors and to teach TCCC (Tactical Combat Casualty Care) once again to the hospital staff preparing to go into harms way. 

It's been a proud Navy Week for me.

I am also thankful for the time spent with Sled Dog while in Vegas last weekend.  A truely humble Warrior with so much knowledge and experience.  Thank you Sled Dog!  Woof!!! 8-)

 :-)
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on July 26, 2008, 10:35:18 AM
Today, I am grateful that the news during breakfast was filled with less acts of violence than yesterday's news.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on July 27, 2008, 07:36:16 PM
Today, my family and I drove back home to southern California from a trip to Arizona. We came home to find that the house was in the same condition that we left it. We are now unpacking and doing laundry. No one broke in. Nothing flooded. A tree did not fall on our roof. I am grateful to be home, and for us to have been away for most of the week, with nothing going wrong here at home.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Scotty Dog on July 28, 2008, 01:16:47 AM
I'm greatfull today for my parents taking the boys over the weekend, giving Mrs Scotty & I the chance to have a nice meal then go see Dark Knight (which is fantastic btw)
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on July 28, 2008, 09:18:22 AM
I am grateful for Maija Solderholm of Visayan Corto Eskrima coming down from the bay area for two days to exchange knowledge with me.  She has stimulated my thinking in several important ways.  Thank you Maija!
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on July 29, 2008, 12:23:46 AM
7/28/08

Today/tonight, I am grateful to have led the first meeting of my training group since I fractured my foot in May. I am supposed to be ALL cleared on Wednesday, but I led a two-hour class tonight. It was great fun. I am grateful for the folks who made it to my home, and to have been left with a very positive feeling afterward.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on July 30, 2008, 12:05:22 AM
7/29/08

As a resident of Chino Hills, California, with the majority of my family living in Diamond Bar, today I am grateful that the earthquake that took place did not harm any of my family members and that there seems to me mostly superficial damage to our possessions and our property. I am also grateful that today's (relatively small) earthquake will hopefully remind California residents that earthquake preparation is very important.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on July 30, 2008, 07:46:41 AM
I am very grateful that my wife is talking our children to see the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, the Liberty Bell, and Gettysburg. 
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on July 30, 2008, 09:23:03 PM
7/30/08

Today, I am grateful for a number of new professional opportunities that have opened up in the last few days.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on July 30, 2008, 11:10:25 PM
Grateful for a good conversation with my brother, and a partner in BJJ tonight who did not grind me as much as he could have  :lol:
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on July 31, 2008, 12:02:24 PM
Today, I am grateful that the sore throat that I developed yesterday seems to be going away quickly.  The Gathering is right around the corner, and I can't lose training time!
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on July 31, 2008, 02:21:05 PM
Grateful for the nice workout today swinging sticks and KBs  8-)
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Tony Torre on July 31, 2008, 05:25:11 PM
Today I am grateful I heard my son say his first word "pa pa"

Tony Torre
Miami Arnis Group
www.miamiarnisgroup.com

P.S. While typing this my son started crawling!!
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on August 01, 2008, 08:26:24 PM
Mr. Torre,

Congrats to your son and to you as his proud pa pa!  :-D

Today, I am thankful for a good time teaching and training in the morning, followed by a nice meal with my wife, son, mother, and grandmother in the evening time.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Tony Torre on August 02, 2008, 09:31:11 AM
Thank you Guide Dog and thank you for this awesome thread!

Tony Torre
Miami Arnis Group
www.miamiarnisgroup.com
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on August 02, 2008, 11:16:49 AM
@ TT:  My wife worked sedulously on having our son's first words be "dada" so I would be the one who would have to go to him when he woke up in the night.

Woof All: 

My wife has an "Attitudes of Gratitude" book for reading on the throne, which is where I happened to be before setting down to the computer.  My reading this time around spoke of being grateful for good things, but then raised the question of the attitude to take towards bummer things and to be grateful to them for what they can teach us.

Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on August 02, 2008, 06:13:13 PM
Today is Saturday. I am grateful for the promise that Monday holds for some positive news of a professional nature.  :)
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: califkali on August 02, 2008, 06:41:09 PM
I am grateful today that my wife is home safe. I recieved a call at work today that she was robbed at knifepoint by 2 males in their early 20's. She was walking home from the neighborhood drug store. As always she was walking with our boxer/pit who is very friendly but would attack if they would have grabbed her. As they were passing on the sidewalk they greeted hello and one petted the dog while the other pulled a knife and in a calm voice without touching my wife said give me your money. Though my bloods boiling, in this situation I'm glad she gave up the money an did not use the pepper spray or tell the dog to attack because she is home safe.      Craig
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Howling Dog on August 03, 2008, 12:31:11 PM
Woof Craig, I read your post last night. I'am sure I'am not alone here when I say I'am sorry to hear what happend to your wife and what you must be feeling.
My thoughts are with you and your family!  Stay safe and love your wife!
 I'am glad to hear she came thru this unhurt.
                                                            Dog Tom
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: califkali on August 03, 2008, 03:53:35 PM
Thanks Tom, Wife is fine today and says she will be more careful of letting strangers in " her space".      Craig
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on August 03, 2008, 06:43:15 PM
califkali,

Today, I am grateful that you do not have a tragedy to report. Best wishes to her and yourself.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: califkali on August 03, 2008, 08:15:19 PM
Thank you Guide Dog, As a Prado Park regular I am glad the earthquake did not harm your family or cause much damage to the area. Marc could you move my gratitude post to crimes using knives? Might make for good discussion on how we would like our wives, sons or daughters to handle certain situations. See you in Burbank Sunday.   Craig in Hemet
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on August 03, 2008, 08:38:38 PM
Woof Craig:

I'm glad to move it, but may I suggest that it may be better for you to do so.  Some additional details, including the aftermath, may come to you as you do so.

The Adventure continues!

PS:  See you Sunday.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on August 04, 2008, 05:00:19 PM
Today, I am grateful for the reemergence of multiple professional opportunities that I frankly had forgotten about. I also remain grateful that the Gathering looms in the near future. A fine day of hurting and getting hurt a little bit seems like a good way to spend this Sunday!
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on August 05, 2008, 08:03:33 AM
Grateful my family comes home today from visiting Grandma.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Kaju Dog on August 05, 2008, 04:48:54 PM
Im greatfull for the 3 phone calls I received today from young men wanting to check out class tonite and are interested in training.

 :-D

PS
Crafty, I hope your family has a safe trip home.   :-)
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on August 05, 2008, 09:55:42 PM
Today, I am grateful for a few minutes of play with my son that just took place a few minutes before we began to calm him down for bed.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Dan Farley on August 06, 2008, 03:22:07 AM
Today I am grateful for the random phone call I got from Crafty, and the motivation I now have to start training again.   8-)
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Kaju Dog on August 06, 2008, 07:43:26 AM
I am greatfull for the 4 new students that started training with me last night.  We had a great class.  Good turn out!

I am also greatfull for being able to represent the Armed Forces as part of the Honor Guard.  I attended four funerals yesterday and will be going to perform Military Honors at one this afternoon. 

I am greatfull for the sacrifices made by those who serve(ed) and the loving support from all others.

Im greatfull that I survived my tour and expect to do it again in the future.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on August 07, 2008, 12:10:58 AM
8/6/2008
.
I am grateful for getting a little dressed up, having my sister-in-law be a baby sitter, a nice dinner, and a good show out among friends and my wife.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: rio on August 07, 2008, 08:30:05 PM
i'm grateful for my wife not stepping on a 5 ft rattler during our run this afternoon. just about to step and had to jump mid stride. i think it was just sunning itself, it didn't even react until we double backed to check it out. amazing
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on August 08, 2008, 10:01:38 AM
8/8/08

Today, I am grateful for an important decision regarding the next academic year that was made this morning. A weight has been lifted and all anxiety is gone.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: califkali on August 08, 2008, 07:18:54 PM
Today, I am grateful that my eldest son will be with me at the gathering and that last night I met his girlfriend of 1 year. I am grateful of my wife's spirit and my youngest sons dedication to excelling and serving in the Navy.   Craig
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on August 09, 2008, 02:01:47 PM
Today, I am grateful for the good friends in my life.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on August 10, 2008, 09:28:35 PM
Today, I am grateful for a fine day of stickfighting amongst good, friendly, authentic people.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on August 11, 2008, 01:26:21 PM
I am grateful today to listen to the silence that comes after a Gathering  8-)
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: califkali on August 11, 2008, 08:40:47 PM
I am grateful today that I came home dented but in one piece, and that my son was proud his dad went out and gave it a go. (my wife wasn't to happy when I got home and took my shirt off). Thanks to all.....Craig
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on August 11, 2008, 09:53:11 PM
Today, I am grateful to have signed my resignation with my old school district and to have signed a contract in a new district that will bring me back to the high school level after two years in junior high. I have five years of work with the old district of which I am proud, but it's time for a change. I am grateful for the opportunity to make the 08-09 academic year the best ever! I hope I can be a more positive, happier Guide Dog!
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Kaju Dog on August 13, 2008, 11:52:53 AM
I am extremely greatfull for the wonderful treasure given to me by C-Howling Dog (thats does have a nice ring to it Sir)

The magazine is a rare find and in such great condition!  I am humbled by your generosity.

I am greatfull for being honored by Guro Crafty naming me "Candidate-Kaju Dog".

I am greatfull for the surgery performed on my L-Knee,  more greatfull for the PAIN Meds...

Dr. said, "My knee is the worst he had ever seen".  Full blown ACL,PCL, Bilateral meniscus destroyed, Tibia worn down and needed drilling to promote healing and growth. 

Greatfull for the USN providing me the time needed and freedom to rehabilitate my knee, The Right Way.

Greatfull for Lonley Dog's Kali Fitness DVD - I will be studying and utilizing the Kali Fitness DVD to its fullest during and after my recovery...  Great DVD, If you don't have it, GET IT.   A must for any serious stick fighter.

Greatfull for Pretty Kitty's kindness and good heart.  My Wife is sporting the ladies DB's tank top with much pride and glow about her.  I plan to have her accompany me to the next Gathering in California.  Her SUV also sports the DB's TM stickers. 

Greatfull for Pappy Dogs support of the Gathering with GREAT deals on fighter apperal/weapons/etc.

Greatfull for Linda's help and friendship. 

Greatfull for all the Dog Brothers and Future Dog Brothers, Tribe members.  Junkyard Dog / Jeremy, Im greatfull for your accepting to fight a cripple.  LOL

 8-)
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Howling Dog on August 13, 2008, 12:37:52 PM
Woof C-Kaju Dog, Iam glad you like the mag. I was hoping that you would.
It was also my honor to meet you, and to also watch your true warrior spirit in action as you took the mat on that bad wheel of yours.
Good health and a speedy recovery to you! It is my honor to be a part of the dog brothers tribe and to have warrior brothers like yourself. For you and all the dog brothers tribe I'am truly greatful!

I also want to howl at Dog Pound Davis, It was also great to see you, you looked in great shape and fought well(some very tough scraps) Keep fighting brother I'am greatful to you as you inspire me.....again Happy Birthday!

I'am also greatful to my fighters who displayed the fruit of their labors at the Gathering and to Don for giving those kind words on the gathering thread, I appreciate it....it has been good training with you and Dan.....
The adventure continues!
Thanks again Guro Crafty (guiding force) and pretty kitty for doing all that you do!
                                                                                   C-HD
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on August 13, 2008, 03:57:13 PM
Today, I am grateful to have just a little more summer vacation to spend with my son and my wife, and I am grateful for the promise of getting back on a good family/work/training/grad. school routine when the academic year begins.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on August 14, 2008, 09:56:01 PM
Today, I am grateful for a little more time to get organized before life gets back into full swing.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on August 15, 2008, 10:32:19 AM
Today, I am grateful to have watched the two young, American women win the gold and the silver last night in gymnastics. I will admit being a bit moved and motivated to get to work NOW to prepare for the next Gathering.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Kaju Dog on August 15, 2008, 12:55:49 PM
Im thankfull for having such a wonderful Wife and great kids.  They are really stepping up to help their Dad in his time of limited mobility.

PS
*Side bar:

I was wondering if Sled Dog has a brother named Denis?

In the gift from C-Howling Dog, there is a nice article about Denis Gelinas from Montreal.  I am wondering if they are related.  Yip!

What a treasure I am finding in the kindness of my fellow Dog Brother.   :-)
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on August 16, 2008, 03:58:19 PM
Today, I am grateful for a nice day outdoors, followed by a nice lunch with family.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: JAK on August 17, 2008, 01:42:06 PM
I am thankful today and everyday for my team mates. Who serve proudly as warriors and for those how have made the ultimate sacrifice that we may have the opportunity to persue the things that we love and hold dear.

And as always for my wife and two children who put up the the craziness of my (one minute I'm here the next I'm gone) life with little or no complaints.

I am also thankful for those such as Marc, Gabe, Michael Janich and Kelly McCann among others for doing what they do when they take time out away from their families to train us to be warriors and not worriers.

JAK
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on August 17, 2008, 08:56:57 PM
Today, I am grateful for my step-father, who spent the entire day at my home, helping with home repairs.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on August 17, 2008, 09:32:00 PM
Today I am grateful to have accompanied my son to a birthday party and to have watched as I saw him swim in the ocean for the first time with his friends.

I first watched for a while to get a sense of how good his judgment was (pleasantly relieved to see it to be pretty good, , , today at least) and then I joined him.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on August 19, 2008, 12:43:02 AM
8/18/08

Today, I am grateful for a morning of setting up a new classroom, running many errands, attending a kali/Jun Fan class, and then a nice meeting with my training group.  It was a day well spent.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on August 19, 2008, 05:15:40 AM
Grateful for the moment with my 6 year old daughter and her best friend, sitting in my truck and watching a monster racoon crossing the street in front of our house.  The expressions on their faces were priceless.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Tony Torre on August 19, 2008, 04:39:34 PM
Today I'd like to express my gratitude to my friend Carmen and her family for inviting me and my family to stay at their home to wait out Hurricane Fay.  I'm also very grateful it turned out to only be a tropical storm.

Tony Torre
Miami Arnis Group
www.miamiarnisgroup.com
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on August 19, 2008, 08:35:02 PM
True friends. 8-)
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on August 19, 2008, 10:00:48 PM
Today, I am grateful to have had a nice summer vacation with my family.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: JAK on August 23, 2008, 12:26:09 PM
I am thankful for the "cool" weather here in Eastern OK makes knife training just a little easier on my small group. :evil:

JAK
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on August 24, 2008, 04:48:42 AM
Grateful to be on family vacation visiting my mom, who has mostly been living in Peru, but at the moment is back in the US-- wonderful to see her and her grandchildren getting to know each other.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on August 24, 2008, 11:21:05 PM
8/24/2008

I recently reconnected with an old high school friend.  We found each other in February and I was able to get together with her for the first time in April.  Her husband, who I met about seven year ago, is dying of cancer.  He has passed the date that the doctors believed that he would die on about three years ago.  He recently made the decision that chemotherapy is not for him and that he wants to try to enjoy the time he has left.  His wife has begun to make plans for his passing.  Today, my wife and son had the chance to met my friend for the first time, and her husband.  I am grateful for a fun day, in a very positive household, that was inspiring to both my wife and myself.  My friend is really an amazing woman, and my wife commented that she was one of the most positive people she had ever met.  I am also grateful to have reconnected with such a good friend, and authentic person.  This was not meant to be a post to bum anyone out.  I am truly grateful for what was a VERY positive day.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on August 27, 2008, 09:23:51 PM
I recently moved back to teaching high school from the two years at the junior high level. I am grateful for my new position in what seems very nice school.

Today, one of my freshman students came up to my desk after I had given a very easy assignment in which the students needed to interview one another and present their findings to the class in order to get to know one another better.  This student looked a little rattled.  When I asked what was the matter, he began to tell me about his speech impediment.  He very diligently worked through the words as he stuttered.  He asked if he might be excused from the assignment and have an alternative.  I told him that I didn't have any problem if he turned in the information in written form that he would have read aloud.  He looked incredibly relieved and he thanked me.  After he returned to his desk (pardon me for sounding wimpy), I had to force myself from getting a little misty eyed.  I admired the boy's authenticity, and his assertiveness in the face of what is a pretty severe stutter.  I was also moved by how easy it was to help wipe the rattled look of of his face by being a little nice.  Maybe it's just a teacher thing, but I am grateful for the interaction.  It made me feel good to try and help him.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Maxx on August 27, 2008, 10:05:07 PM
Today I am Grateful to realise that I serve in the Greatest Military for the greatest country on this Planet earth.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on August 28, 2008, 11:54:46 PM
Grateful for a positive 1st week at a new job location!   :-D  Too soon to say it's ALL amazing.  It's still the honeymoon phase!
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on August 29, 2008, 05:44:09 AM
For a long time my son has wanted to see NYC and yesterday was the first of two days.  We did Statue of Liberty and a walk through some of my old stomping grounds in Central Park, and a night time walk in the neighborhood.  He and his sister are just beaming as am I to share with him places where I was a boy at the age that he is now.

Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on August 30, 2008, 01:32:15 PM
Saw John Williams last night at the Hollywood Bowl.  As someone who was raised right at the perfect time to have Raiders of the Lost Ark and the original Star Wars trilogy change my perceptions forever about what a movie could be, I am grateful to have heard both "The Raiders March" and "The Imperial March" live last night.   :)
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Kaju Dog on August 30, 2008, 04:07:10 PM
Im greatful for my daughter making it onto her schools volley ball team.  As long as she keeps her grades up, it should be a good year.


In addition the knee is healing well and I am anxious to get past the non-weight bearing time.  Only 4 weeks to go  :oops:

I start teaching again next week.  It's gonna be interesting teaching from a chair for a while...  :?  Gotta do what ya gotta do.

Anxious students await  8-)
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on August 31, 2008, 09:13:01 PM
Grateful for the opportunity to help a friend today and to make another friend feel good.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Kaju Dog on August 31, 2008, 09:49:15 PM
Greatful for a bit of cooler weather and a fine day at the park with the family.   8-)
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on September 01, 2008, 07:31:47 AM
Grateful for a wonderful family vacation visiting my mom in upstate NY and taking my children to see the place of my youth-- NYC, and grateful to be back home.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on September 01, 2008, 05:07:53 PM
Grateful for a nice Labor Day with my family.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on September 02, 2008, 03:27:34 PM
Grateful for a fast-paced, productive day at work, that went by in such a way that I have the momentum and energy I need to accomplish several errands this evening.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: c - Shadow Dog on September 02, 2008, 05:54:20 PM
I went to a parent teacher conferences tonight and got two good reports.

Healthy and happy and learning.

I am on my knees thankful for my childreen and my life.

Terry
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on September 04, 2008, 08:17:28 PM
Grateful for a time today to get some key errands done, while my wife watched the little one.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on September 06, 2008, 10:26:36 AM
Today, I am grateful for a slow, relaxed day with few expectations. I need to get some work done for grad. school, and review some classic novels that I will be teaching in the next few weeks.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on September 06, 2008, 09:19:26 PM
A fine day working Kali Tudo with Dogzilla and the Hawaii clan  8-)
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Tom Stillman on September 07, 2008, 08:40:13 AM
I was glad to see Dogzilla added to the list of elders. It just feels right.  :-)
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on September 07, 2008, 10:22:34 AM
After the seminar today we did a bit together and he showed me his current understandings and movement.  Deeply satisfying to see how he has grasped and evolved with the things we have worked together over the years, his understading of DBMA.  His teaching here in Hawaii is deep and strong.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on September 07, 2008, 01:52:28 PM
I am pleased to have had the chance to meet and fight with Dogzilla at the 3 day Gathering.

Today, I am grateful to not have a bad feeling in the pit of my stomach because I have to go back to work tomorrow.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guard Dog on September 07, 2008, 02:32:44 PM
I'm grateful that I'll be getting my Mustang GT back from the police next week.  Here is the back story:

So here’s the deal. About two months ago I took my 1990 Mustang GT to the shop to get it’s annual inspection. I’ve had the car since I was sixteen. In fact, it was my first car. I am now twenty-six and still baby the car daily. I’ve only managed to put 59K on it in the past ten years only driving it when I think the weather is worthy of hitting the pavement with her. Needless to say, I love the car with a passion.

I was expecting the job to take a day or so and for my mechanic to call me back letting me know it was done. Sure enough he called back, but it wasn’t a call to inform me it had passed inspection. Rather it was to give me some horrible news.

The first words out of my mechanic’s mouth were “when did you come and get your car?”

I laughed and asked, "What do you mean? Are you screwing with me?”

He replied with, “Ah no, it’s not here Ryan.”

It was with this news that I found out that my 1990 Mustang GT 25th Anniversary was stolen. Someone had come into my mechanic’s lot, loaded it onto a flat bed and taken her away. I contacted the insurance company, filled out the paperwork, scanned in my years of receipts showing that this car was in impeccable condition and was on my way to getting an insurance check. Something bothered me however, I felt as if it was out there, and would possibly be found. I put off the final steps of finalizing the insurance claim until a few days ago. The last step was to sign over the title to the insurance company, send it to them and they would send me my check. I had the title in the envelope, signed and stamped, ready to go out with the mail the next day. It seemed like one of the longest walks I had ever taken walking to my mail box, putting the title in and raising the outgoing mail flag on the box. It had taken two months but I had finally gotten over the fact that I was never going to see my Mustang again. Instead, I was handing over the title for under half of what I actually put into the far, you gotta love the “blue book” value. In any event, I went to work that night, did my business and came back late, around 1AM. I was winding down getting ready to go to bed when I saw my cell phone light up. Who could possibly be calling me at this time? Without hesitation I realized it must be important so I picked it up. Seeing an out of state number that was not coming up on caller ID alarmed me but I answered it anyways.

“Hello?” I answered

“Mr. Gruhn?” the man said.

“Yes Sir.”

This is Trooper Dillian with the State Police.

O god I thought to myself, what did I get myself into now?!

“Mr. Gruhn, . . . . we found your car.”

My heart pretty much jumped out of my chest! I sprung to my feet and started drilling him for answers. It turns out that this was a multi-state deal with numerous mustangs that were getting chopped up and sold. I half didn’t want to know but I asked, “is my car okay?” He said that it was intact and actually had a good bit of work done to it; headers, paint, etc. However, it wasn’t in the best shape. He informed me that it will be almost a month until I can even see it again because it has to be booked into evidence, finger printed, etc. On top of that, if I really wanted it I would have to drive down to West Virginia to get it. It took no time at all for me to realize that I will actually be reunited with my first real love. A 1990 Mustang GT that I once laid eyes on and said that I would never let it go. It might sound corny but I had planned on getting this car since it came out in 1990 and I was eight years of age. It was a plan to never let go of her.


I can't wait to get it back!
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Kaju Dog on September 07, 2008, 05:47:13 PM
Are you sure you're not getting set up for a "pimp my ride" episode?  Good luck brother.   :evil:
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: tankerdriver on September 08, 2008, 08:06:36 PM
I am grateful I work for a company that gives paid lunches and to the In and Out Burger around the block from said work.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guard Dog on September 08, 2008, 09:49:26 PM
Are you sure you're not getting set up for a "pimp my ride" episode?  Good luck brother.   :evil:

I wish.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Kaju Dog on September 08, 2008, 10:37:40 PM
Greatfull for having a new student start tonite and class went great.  Leg is feeling pretty good (knocks on wood). 

 8-)
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: C-Kumu Dog on September 08, 2008, 10:52:16 PM
Grateful for the opportunity to train with Guro Crafty today.   
It was very cool! :mrgreen:
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on September 09, 2008, 01:00:31 AM
I am grateful for the chance to further get to know the Hawaii Clan and for our time together.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guard Dog on September 09, 2008, 03:08:30 AM
I am grateful to be able to work with youth on stick work!  Last night was a blast with our first Youth Martial Arts class at my new facility.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: C-Kumu Dog on September 11, 2008, 01:28:08 AM
Grateful to celebrate a good friend \ instructor \ brother birthday tonight with most excellent company tonight.  :-D
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on September 11, 2008, 01:41:34 AM
Grateful for a fine day at Colinas with Dogzilla, Night Owl, Daniel, Kevin, and Matt.  Tres cool to hang out with the giant sea turtles, and a fine time at Dogzilla bday party tonight.

Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: C-Kumu Dog on September 12, 2008, 12:34:08 AM
Grateful for my job that allows me in a small way to protect those that are protecting us.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on September 12, 2008, 05:09:51 PM
Today, I am grateful for a productive week, leading into a weekend seminar for graduate school.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: califkali on September 12, 2008, 06:49:53 PM
Today, I am grateful  for the past 4 days spent with my youngest son. He just finished his Navy school and is now stationed in San Diego, I had not seen him for 4 months. Surf Dog gave him some good training and he looks forward to fight in a gathering.   Craig ( a proud father ).
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on September 12, 2008, 07:58:23 PM
 8-) 8-) 8-)

In a similar vein I just finished getting beaten up siniwali by my nine year old son.  Happy dad  8-)
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: califkali on September 12, 2008, 08:51:31 PM
Crafty, My best defense training comes from Lester's son Tyler.   Sabe?    Craig
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Kaju Dog on September 12, 2008, 10:25:30 PM
Today, I am grateful  for the past 4 days spent with my youngest son. He just finished his Navy school and is now stationed in San Diego, I had not seen him for 4 months. Surf Dog gave him some good training and he looks forward to fight in a gathering.   Craig ( a proud father ).

Looking forward to meeting my new shipmate and future DB at future Gatherings.

"Semper Fortis" from HM2(FMF) Webster

Woof! :mrgreen:
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: C-Kumu Dog on September 13, 2008, 12:33:22 AM
SImply grateful that its finally the weekend.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Kaju Dog on September 13, 2008, 12:42:54 PM
Greatfull for all the effort put out by our KajuPit Fight Team this morning.  Two of my students joined the fight team and had their cherries popped this morning with some intense fight cardio...    They represented my Lemoore branch well and hope to see them stick with it. 

Great way to start the day and the weekend. 8-)
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on September 13, 2008, 05:16:35 PM
Woof Craig:

Surf has been doing an excellent job with Tyler, who really seems to soak it up.

All:

Grateful to be home with my family, grateful for a fun documentary shoot this AM with the G4 network, grateful to have started up again my class at the IAMA.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guard Dog on September 13, 2008, 06:57:28 PM
I'm grateful to have spent the day with Ajarn Chai in NJ.  I got his opinion on some material that I've been planning for the next Gathering and he tuned it up for me.  Obviously it was Muay Thai based but he gave me some Krabi flavor to add into the mix, HOW COOL!
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on September 14, 2008, 04:24:17 PM
I am grateful for an inspirational weekend spent in seminar for graduate school.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on September 15, 2008, 08:34:36 AM
Grateful for a confusion clarified.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on September 18, 2008, 12:42:32 AM
Grateful for a good day at work, followed by a tough three hour Savate seminar.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on September 21, 2008, 10:05:58 PM
Today at 10 AM, the husband of an old high school friend gave up his long battle with cancer and passed away. My very good friend is a widow at thirty. Today, I am grateful to have known the man, what he meant to my friend, and his reminder that while we say things like this, we must remember that life truly is short and it is important to try and make the best of the time that we have.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: C-Kumu Dog on September 22, 2008, 01:08:43 AM
Grateful to celebrate so many birthdays in September.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on September 22, 2008, 10:06:53 PM
Grateful for a good workout tonight.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on September 22, 2008, 10:17:03 PM
For my daughter (she's 6) accompanying me to the store this evening, and then tonight SHE read TO me her bedtime stories.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on September 24, 2008, 09:47:01 PM
Grateful for a voice in the back of my mind today telling me, "Don't take it all so seriously."
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: C-Kumu Dog on September 24, 2008, 10:52:44 PM
Grateful to see the light at the end of the tunnel.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on September 26, 2008, 10:05:55 PM
Grateful for a friend's personal strength. It is serving her well.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guard Dog on September 26, 2008, 10:31:49 PM
I'm grateful for heat and three cords of fire wood as we enter the cold months here in the north.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on September 27, 2008, 12:52:18 AM
Grateful to see how well the Dog Brother Tribe is taking root here in Europe.  A fine day yesterday at the Swiss DB Tribal Gathering.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on September 29, 2008, 11:52:31 PM
Grateful for a slower paced day that still allowed me to do my job, and get various tasks done.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Stickgrappler on September 30, 2008, 09:57:35 AM
after being down 777 pts yesterday, i am thankful that the DJIA is up almost 300 pts right now (287 last).
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on September 30, 2008, 06:59:29 PM
Honestly, I bought a silly video game tonight, and I was grateful to have that feeling that I had to get home ASAP and play. I felt like an 11 year old for a moment.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on September 30, 2008, 10:01:25 PM
And I'm thankful that upon seeing the VIX at 48 the day before yesterday, that I bought heavily this AM.

AND I am most glad to be home with my family after a week on the road. 8-) 8-) 8-)
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guard Dog on September 30, 2008, 10:13:40 PM
I'm grateful for unlimited burritos at Mad Mex.  My record is five and I'm shooting for six next week!  Kobayashi here I come!
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on October 07, 2008, 07:10:11 PM
My son had a bad night last night in terms of some food making a reappearance, which is very rare for him. He was taken to the doctor's today and is fine, for which I am very grateful.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on October 08, 2008, 05:50:52 AM
I just noticed my post of the first and am grateful that I put in tight stops.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on October 09, 2008, 08:55:52 PM
Today, I am grateful to have finished something very simple that I built up in my mind to be bigger than it was.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on October 10, 2008, 07:59:46 PM
Today, there have been some strange events in close, family relationships that make me question the nature of the universe. I am grateful that I seem to be getting maybe a little wiser. I didn't spend very long thinking about it. I have faith that the sun will rise tomorrow, and things will be a little more clear.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on October 10, 2008, 08:45:46 PM
Grateful for a very full and very enjoyable day of teaching privates here in Bloomington.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guard Dog on October 10, 2008, 11:36:00 PM
I'm grateful for a renewed interest in the martial arts and getting over the hump of feeling so burnt out!
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on October 11, 2008, 08:14:57 PM
I was able to take my wife to Downtown Los Angeles today, have a nice meal in a semi-fancy restaurant, then attend a symphony, and all on a teacher's salary! Some people in this life have more than I do. Some have less. Today, I am grateful for what I have.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on October 12, 2008, 05:57:28 AM
I am grateful for a fine day yesterday working with a good group of people and having a good time. I do so like what I get to do.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Stickgrappler on October 14, 2008, 01:50:30 PM
i am grateful for yesterday's rally in equities markets.

i am grateful my youngest is 5 yrs old now and in kindergarden and i can slowly ease back into training having been in the Family Man stage of life for 10 yrs with little to no training.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Kaju Dog on October 14, 2008, 02:40:37 PM
Im thankfull for this past weekend of good times with great people.  I enjoyed helping others improve their skills in several areas.  I got to help some of the wounded hard chargers with some pain relief.  All in the spirit of Ohana. 

I got to chill around the camp fire at my friend Mark Gerry's home and chat with GM Max Pallen.  He is going to be taking a group on a tour of Tailand and Cebu in the near future.


All in all a great weekend. :mrgreen:

Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on October 14, 2008, 06:13:52 PM
Grateful for a day that went easier than expected.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guard Dog on October 15, 2008, 10:30:35 AM
I happy to know that this Sunday-Tuesday I'll be fly fishing with my Father and Grandfather in upstate PA.  I can't wait to disconnect and spend some time with the family.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on October 15, 2008, 04:53:59 PM
Grateful for helpful family and friends.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on October 16, 2008, 06:09:11 AM
Grateful to be back home with my family and to have a nice big long slow but intense workout at my favorite neighborhood gym to clean all the airplane seats out of my hips and waist.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on October 16, 2008, 03:51:46 PM
Grateful to see a nasty stomach bug that has come and gone, come and gone, finally seem to be on its way out of my son.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guard Dog on October 19, 2008, 07:20:42 PM
I took pleasure in cornering one of our up and coming Muay Thai Boxers this weekend.  He walked away with the win and no injuries!
Title: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: tiburon2112 on October 26, 2008, 09:25:21 AM
I am extremely grateful to my friend Jeff P. and his wonderful bride Lisa, for introducing me into sticks, Krav Maga, and the combative conditioning "community".  Also, I am very grateful to my wonderful wife and family for providing me the opportunity to "rip it!" and continue the journey...... 
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on October 26, 2008, 07:40:21 PM
For a wonderful weekend of Cub Scout camping with my family.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Tom Stillman on October 27, 2008, 08:55:04 PM
I am grateful for true friends that love me and treat me like family (Ohana) even when my true family does not.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: C-Kumu Dog on October 28, 2008, 06:35:10 PM
Grateful for the opportunity to spend my days off with my 8 mo old at the park / beach and get a small workout done in the process too!  :-D
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guard Dog on October 29, 2008, 01:48:11 PM
I'm glad to have seen the first snow flakes of the season today!  :-D
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on October 29, 2008, 11:36:35 PM
Grateful to begin my Adventure in Argentina tomorrow.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Tom Stillman on October 30, 2008, 12:58:25 AM
Grateful for my 6 yr old daughter and all the special times we have together.   :-)
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Kaju Dog on November 14, 2008, 01:52:46 PM
Im thankfull for my two new students that started training last night.  A female Marine (Sarah) and another enlisted Navy man named Herb.  I was impressed with their conditioning and heart.  Both have prior training in various systems (Krav, MCMAP, Muay Thai, Boxing, Grappling).  Sarah showed interest in stick and knife fighting.  She fought knife vs knife with Jeremy, a student of mine that fought at the last Gathering in LA.

Goodtimes,
TAC :mrgreen:
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on November 19, 2008, 11:16:31 PM
Grateful to see that life has let me get back into the martial arts pool again after being rather forcibly yanked out for a few weeks.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on November 22, 2008, 11:15:50 PM
I am grateful that the southern California wild fires did not consume my home. The community just south of us had to evacuate, and my wife and I cleared out one of our cars and started making piles...scary.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guard Dog on November 23, 2008, 09:53:23 AM
I'm happy to be spending the next few days with my Dad at our hunting camp!  I am looking forward to getting out of cell phone range!
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on November 23, 2008, 04:39:21 PM
For a fine weekend of Cub Scout/Boy Scout camping with my son.  My first time camping below freezing.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Kaju Dog on November 23, 2008, 08:48:18 PM
Pleased with a full day of sharing.  I visited one of our new  Kajupit locations in Fresno today and enjoyed teaching a variety of students from all walks of life.  Then I was treated to a great luncheon in Chinatown.

 :-D
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on November 26, 2008, 07:47:22 PM
Grateful for a nice, productive day spent with my son.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: SB_Mig on November 27, 2008, 09:09:39 AM
Grateful the fires did not take our home, the rains did not wash us away, and the many dear friends who sent us their best wishes.

Grateful for the amazing martial arts community that nourishes my spirit, body, and mind.

Grateful for family, especially Mom, who comes to visit today.

Happy Thanksgiving everyone!
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: C-Kumu Dog on November 27, 2008, 05:30:57 PM
Thankful that what seemed like a disaster turned into a blessing, allowing me to spend my our 1st thanksgiving together as a family.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Kaju Dog on November 27, 2008, 10:38:08 PM
Thankfull for a day well spent with my wifes family.  Too many blessings to mention...  Goodtimes

Happy Thanksgiving Everyone
WOOF :mrgreen:
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on November 27, 2008, 11:09:28 PM
Grateful for a great Thanksgiving. Hoping everyone out there had a nice one as well!
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guard Dog on November 28, 2008, 06:52:18 AM
I'm grateful for being able to spend time with friends and family yesterday!
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on December 01, 2008, 10:20:10 PM
Grateful for a feeling of settling back into some things that I let go.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on December 01, 2008, 10:58:35 PM
Grateful for 5 days in the mountains around Idyllwild with my family.  Grateful to be back.  Grateful for a great chiropractor, Dr. Michele Bosten of Santa Monica (11th and Wilshire).
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on December 03, 2008, 10:17:47 PM
Grateful for chances to get some things in order.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on December 04, 2008, 10:27:50 PM
Grateful for the chance to fix some things I thought I broke.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: C-Kumu Dog on December 05, 2008, 06:15:54 AM
Grateful I still have my job, so far several people including some big wigs have been laid off.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on December 05, 2008, 09:57:06 PM
Grateful for a few days of feeling like I am getting back on schedule and feeling good at the same time.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Tony Torre on December 06, 2008, 08:03:41 AM
Today I am grateful for the help I've recieved from my senior student Ozzie.  He meets me at the park before class to work on our conditioning despite the fact that I need it more than him.  Nothing quite like a 150 lb, sinewy, fast as greased lighting, never tiring, younger than you by 10 years , super enthusiastic training partner to keep you motivated.  Really I am grateful for my whole training group each which gives me so much in their own unique ways.

Tony Torre
Miami Arnis Group
www.miamiarnisgroup.com
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Kaju Dog on December 07, 2008, 11:01:50 PM
I am thankfull for the opportunity to help out a fellow shipmate over the next couple weeks.  Regretfully that means that I will be out of touch with the forum for a short while but will do my best to check in as opportunities may arise.

Im also grateful for the my fellow Brits that are comming to the April Gathering and look forward to buying them a few pints.

Cheers!   :mrgreen:

C-KD (A Brummy in Yanks clothing)  :lol:

Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: ponytotts on December 08, 2008, 02:31:18 PM
today i am grateful for inspiration from unexpected sources.

Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: rachelg on December 09, 2008, 06:33:36 PM
I'm grateful for a wonderful birthday weekend with family and friends and that I have been busy with fun things instead of work.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on December 09, 2008, 07:30:34 PM
I am grateful to have found a program that does a rather good job of translating english-spanish and vice versa for a reasonable price.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: ponytotts on December 11, 2008, 01:54:49 AM
i am grateful for my resilience.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on December 12, 2008, 11:22:41 PM
I am grateful to have walked with my little boy (19 months) to the mailbox today. I love to watch him walk/run.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on December 13, 2008, 10:02:36 PM
For my extra time with my children while my wife is out of town.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: ponytotts on December 14, 2008, 03:35:42 AM
i am grateful that i can earn a living as a singer (i really love my job!)
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Tom Stillman on December 14, 2008, 09:28:00 AM
Thankfull for the brave men and women who fight and die to protect us every single day. 
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Kaju Dog on December 14, 2008, 12:28:03 PM
Im grateful for the warmth and kindness of my family while I am here in Michigan visiiting. 

 :-)
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: ponytotts on December 18, 2008, 01:46:41 AM
I am grateful that I am not afraid to speak my mind!
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Kaju Dog on December 18, 2008, 09:03:48 AM
Grateful to now be home again, especially knowing so many that wont be...
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: barna284 on December 19, 2008, 05:11:52 AM
I´m grateful I had my first light, sort-of spar yesterday in PT class. Wonderful experience. Also, I got my first pair of sticks!
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: JAK on December 19, 2008, 07:53:25 AM
Grateful for my training partners who always push me to go the extra set and explore each opportunity in combat.

My children who keep me young.

Turning 50 a few days before Christmas.

Watching my children ransack the house looking for presents.

JAK
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: ponytotts on December 19, 2008, 07:47:07 PM
today, i am grateful for my strength of character and my curiosity.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guard Dog on December 22, 2008, 09:28:52 PM
I'm grateful to have the oppertunity to work with Youth in our Youth Martial Arts program at my gym.  We graduated thirty students tonight to their next belt including one black belt and one assistant instructor!  Nothing gives me more joy than to see the smiles on their faces when they put on their new belts!
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Tony Torre on December 24, 2008, 10:02:59 PM
Today I am grateful for seeing my son walking for the first time ever.  It was the best Christmas present anyone could receive!   I am also grateful for the opportunity to spend the evening with my family-all of us.

Tony Torre
Miami Arnis Group
www.miamiarnisgroup.com



Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on December 27, 2008, 12:01:02 AM
Grateful for a nice holiday with family and friends.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: C-Kumu Dog on December 27, 2008, 12:47:09 AM
Grateful that my little guys are safe with grandmas.
Grateful that my wife is at work with me during this island wide power outage
Grateful  I work at a NOC
Grateful for family and a wonderful christmas.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: C-Kumu Dog on December 27, 2008, 08:28:02 AM
Grateful power is being restored.  :-D
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: tiburon2112 on December 29, 2008, 02:41:19 PM
Grateful for a safe and blessed trip to Hawai'i with my family.  God bless our warfighters!  Mele Kalikimaka.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: ponytotts on December 30, 2008, 02:04:05 PM
that i can see fruit from some of my labours.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Kaju Dog on December 30, 2008, 03:58:28 PM
Grateful for the constant brainstorming and sharing that goes on here.  I made myself a "Frustrator" last night and had a blast.  My daughter even gave it a go and it was great to hear her laugh in frustration every time she got smacked. 

Grateful for my daughters constant nagging to train more with me and her desire to show me that she remembers and practices the things I have shared with her thus far. 

Ahhh, to be young and hungry. 

Share the Blessings...   :mrgreen: :-D
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Kaju Dog on December 31, 2008, 10:29:39 PM
HAPPY NEW YEAR TO ALL DOGS & CATS...    :evil:

Grateful for all of you...  WOOF-WOOF
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on January 03, 2009, 12:45:54 AM
Grateful for a wonderful New Year's Eve with family and friends. Best wishes to everyone in 2009.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: ponytotts on January 03, 2009, 10:22:46 AM
for my patience and my insight.
for a nice quiet new years eve with my lady.
Happy new year everyone.
tpotts
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: TonyPeters on January 03, 2009, 11:31:22 AM
Grateful to have DB and the forum when times are tough. Thanks Tribe.

-Tony
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on January 04, 2009, 05:02:48 AM
My sentiments exactly.

I am grateful for everyone who comes here and helps make this forum the place that it is.  We grow stronger every day and I look forward to more of the same for 2009.

The Adventure continues!
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on January 05, 2009, 11:23:48 PM
Grateful to have a nice 1st day back at work after the holiday break.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Kaju Dog on January 06, 2009, 06:37:35 AM
Grateful for a good first night back teaching here on base and for the new student that joined last night. 

Grateful for the Honor of being able to perform at the gravesites of  4 Veterans today as part of the NAS Lemoore's base Honor Guard. 

 :-) :-(
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: ponytotts on January 07, 2009, 12:55:46 PM
for the help of a good friend.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: rio on January 07, 2009, 06:15:22 PM
i'm finally thankful for being able to treat my first patient in a new clinic for Eisenhower Medical Center. starting from scratch, we built the four treatment room clinic, plus two monoplace Hyperbaric Chamber Room from the ground up. so many obstacles i thought we were never gonna open. to top it off State inspectors kept delaying final walk through. well. . . up and running, and i do mean running. from 0 patients to 16 + daily census. what a relief.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on January 08, 2009, 11:37:38 PM
for the many challenges and rewards of keeping several (metaphorical) balls in the air at one time.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Tony Torre on January 17, 2009, 05:10:43 PM
Today I have two thing s which I am grateful.  First my wife just found a great job after a two month lay off.  Second I just spent a wonderful day with my family after playing hookie from work.  We went shopping at Toys-R-Us for my son he got a toy ball, mom got a foam roller(the same you get for physical therapy), and I got mashoonga sticks! 

Tony Torre
Miami Arnis Group
www.miamiarnisgroup.com
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Kaju Dog on January 17, 2009, 10:14:24 PM
My daughters focus during our Father/Daughter training evolution today.  She is learning one of my favorite Kung Fu forms with patience and the grace of a 10 yr old.

Made my day   :-)

Grateful for my wifes love and support in all that we do.

My teachers words of wisdom from his experiences

This forum and my fellow Brothers of the arts. :mrgreen:
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: califkali on January 19, 2009, 08:12:13 PM
Surprise visit from my son today. His strike group joins the aircraft carrier tomorrow, for a 7 month tour. God Bless all that serve our Country.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Kaju Dog on January 20, 2009, 07:31:15 AM
Grateful to be part of the Honor Guard.  Going to Santa Nella to perform funeral Honors for some of our countries Veterans today.

 :cry:
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: sting on January 20, 2009, 12:38:02 PM
My daughters focus during our Father/Daughter training evolution today.  She is learning one of my favorite Kung Fu forms with patience and the grace of a 10 yr old.

dean, which one is that? 

I always wanted to learn the "8 hands of Lohan" as performed by Prof. Pearce.  I know that's a generic title, but his rendition at the 2000 Gathering of the Eagles Kenpo conference made a lasting impression.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Dog Ryan on January 20, 2009, 01:39:14 PM
I am grateful for Chinese herbs to make the pain and stick hickeys go away. And also for my wife and son who think I'm outta my damn mind. :-D
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Kaju Dog on January 20, 2009, 07:03:20 PM
My daughters focus during our Father/Daughter training evolution today.  She is learning one of my favorite Kung Fu forms with patience and the grace of a 10 yr old.

dean, which one is that? 

I always wanted to learn the "8 hands of Lohan" as performed by Prof. Pearce.  I know that's a generic title, but his rendition at the 2000 Gathering of the Eagles Kenpo conference made a lasting impression.

Hung Family Five Animal - Five Elelment 

The version I have is relatively short compared to the individual forms of each animal/element. 

The version I have has fives moves for each seperate animal, so it is easy to teach but challenging enough to work on forever. I personally like the transitions;  (ie. from Tiger/Fire to Snake/Earth to Crane/Air to Dragon/Water to Leopard/Wood)  It is a simple form, but has much depth and hidden potential when performed against a partner in an aggressive fashion vs the form flow itself for moving meditation/health.

I would love to share it with you some time. 

My Daughter has borrowed the Tiger portion from me so far and is progressing to ownership of that piece before advancing to the next animal.

Hope this makes sense.  I get a little Zen like when it comes to my Kung Fuey side.  LOL   :wink: :-D

Im glad to see we share some similar interests and look forward to soon meeting you Brother.

Dean


(But I digress)

I am gratful for being able to perform Funeral Honors today for 5 of our fallen Veterans today at:

 http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/San_Joaquin_Valley_National_Cemetery (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/San_Joaquin_Valley_National_Cemetery)


(http://i211.photobucket.com/albums/bb35/Webster-KajuPit/hgdwtop.jpg)

Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on January 27, 2009, 12:48:09 AM
Grateful for a good session with my training group.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Kaju Dog on January 27, 2009, 06:48:32 AM
Glad to get a buddy to give me a ride to work today... Truck wont start   :? :|
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on January 27, 2009, 04:04:32 PM
Profoundly grateful to have my son in a new school!  Wonderful teacher!!!

Grateful for continuing evolution of "Kali Tudo" subsystem.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on January 27, 2009, 07:28:09 PM
Grateful for a fine day that was nothing special.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Kaju Dog on January 27, 2009, 08:00:35 PM
Job security.   :lol:
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on January 28, 2009, 10:35:31 PM
Grateful for an opportunity.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on January 29, 2009, 11:06:56 PM
Something coming to fruition.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Kaju Dog on January 30, 2009, 06:27:17 AM
For my Mother in law loaning me a car while my truck is in the shop. 

For new students joining every class I had this week.

For my LT allowing me time off work to take care of some personal business.

For the fact that it is Friday and tommorow.

Being accepted as a voluteer at the local Soup Kitchen this Saturday, serving the homeless.

Keep that good Kharma comming....   :-)
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on January 30, 2009, 07:31:31 PM
Grateful for a nice dinner with family.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Kaju Dog on January 31, 2009, 07:14:29 AM
For being able to help out at the church in the Soup Kitchen today  :mrgreen:
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on February 01, 2009, 09:48:27 PM
Grateful for a productive first month of the '09.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: danicasdad on February 03, 2009, 09:43:27 PM
Today,
I am grateful that I can wake up in my own house.
I am grateful that my daughter can fall asleep in my arms.
I am grateful that my wife is still with me.
I am grateful that I can put on my shoes.
I am grateful that I have a choice.
 :cry:
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: William on February 04, 2009, 08:02:24 AM
Well, after living my life up until last year with no real worries, physically and mentally, I came very close to dieing when my appendix unexpectedly ruptured. After a long recovery and a couple of setbacks I'm finally getting back to fighting shape. With that being said....

I'm grateful every morning when I wake up to spend another day with my family whom I dearly love.



Live each and every day.


Best regards,
William
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Kaju Dog on February 04, 2009, 08:35:15 AM
Grateful for my teacher correcting me on a Broad Sword form last night.  I am humbled once again by his depth and knowledge.

 8-)
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on February 04, 2009, 03:22:31 PM
Grateful to have some new, fun things to work on.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Kaju Dog on February 05, 2009, 04:49:57 PM
WOOF, WOOF!!!!

Just got my tax refund and immediately renewed my DB's Membership...

I recommend anyone that has not become a member yet, just do it.  You will not regret it. 

Ok, now Im happy again...


(Tail Wags) :-D 8-) :-D
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on February 05, 2009, 07:25:12 PM
 8-)
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on February 05, 2009, 11:12:52 PM
Grateful to be moving ahead with some projects and ideas.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on February 06, 2009, 03:52:52 PM
Grateful to see my son this afternoon when I returned home after the end of the workweek.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on February 07, 2009, 04:30:46 AM
Coming off of being sick, I am particularly grateful for a good night's sleep.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on February 08, 2009, 09:03:55 PM
Grateful for the day off tomorrow.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on February 09, 2009, 11:28:54 PM
Grateful for a fast day spent with family, and then training.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on February 10, 2009, 02:40:02 PM
Grateful to be home from a good time doing a seminar in Toronto.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on February 10, 2009, 06:59:05 PM
Looking to reframe a sh&^&y day, with some gratitude. I am grateful for my health, my little boy's health, and my wife's health.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on February 10, 2009, 08:13:28 PM
"Looking to reframe"  , , , I like that. 8-)
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on February 11, 2009, 08:34:41 PM
And reframe was what I did, and it actually made me feel a little better, yeserday. Today has been a good day. I am grateful for being able to address some minor issues today.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on February 12, 2009, 11:30:45 PM
Grateful that the work week will be over by 2:41 tomorrow (that's when the bell ring for the end of sixth period).
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Tom Stillman on February 12, 2009, 11:48:02 PM
I am grateful I was able to spend the whole day with my daughter on her 7th birthday yesterday. :-D
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on February 13, 2009, 06:34:45 PM
Grateful to hear from some old friends.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Kaju Dog on February 13, 2009, 09:20:45 PM
... To have found a great deal on a good used camper shell for my truck.  Now, I can save $$, have a place to sleep and secure my gear when I go to the DB's gatherings.

 :mrgreen:
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Tom Stillman on February 14, 2009, 05:34:57 PM
 Grateful for the unexpected good things in life!  :-)
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on February 17, 2009, 10:59:22 PM
Grateful for exciting possibilities.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on February 18, 2009, 09:41:20 PM
Grateful for some quiet.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on February 19, 2009, 07:38:23 PM
Grateful for a very thorough day of training.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on February 21, 2009, 08:20:35 PM
Grateful for a great dinner with friends.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on February 21, 2009, 11:03:19 PM
Grateful for you guys who keep this thread alive.

Grateful for a wonderful 4 hour nap this afternoon!
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on February 24, 2009, 07:05:52 PM
Grateful for some struggles and worries that will get me moving.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on February 25, 2009, 05:02:04 PM
Grateful for the fatherly joy of watching my son's kickboxing lesson today.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Kaju Dog on February 25, 2009, 06:33:29 PM
Gratfull for a very uplifting message from one of my top students today.   8-)
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on February 25, 2009, 11:49:26 PM
Grateful for a blank to have been filled in today through nothing more than time and reflection.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on February 28, 2009, 09:23:46 PM
Felt a little down for a few days. I don't anymore. I'm grateful for that.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Tom Stillman on February 28, 2009, 11:52:45 PM
Grateful for a day at the beach with my daughter.  8-) 
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on March 01, 2009, 03:48:02 PM
Grateful to have half a day left of my weekend.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on March 03, 2009, 09:39:59 PM
My life is currently a hurricane of responsibilities, obligations, and playing different roles. The next few months will be the busiest time of this metaphorical "hurricane season". I am grateful for the calm that exists when I stay in the very center, and remain in a state of being okay with the fact that the nature of a hurricane is a thousand things all being blown around at random, and at best, over which I have very little control.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on March 07, 2009, 05:27:41 AM
Grateful for this day that I will be taking my son Cub Scout camping.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: jkrenz on March 08, 2009, 05:13:24 AM
Grateful for a slow day today
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude - Rachel
Post by: DougMacG on March 08, 2009, 01:57:32 PM
I am grateful for intelligent dissent on this board, especially from Rachel.

"Every time I go to post all I seem capable of writing is snarky comments or a harangue. I deleted these kind of  comments before they were posted.  I'm sure you all could handle my negatively but that is not the person I want to be."

Likewise, I have seen other boards digress that way and wish for my own postings and thoughts to not stoop that way.  I regret when my replies to you have crossed that line without being cleaned in the proofread.  My intent was always to challenge you politically, intellectually and morally on the issues, such as pro-life vs. reproductive freedom, not to put you down or myself as superior.  And to be challenged back which is often lacking, especially in your absence.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on March 08, 2009, 10:29:21 PM
Grateful for the passage of time and the progress it brings.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on March 08, 2009, 10:31:50 PM
Grateful for the interesting times in which we live-- times of great adventure!
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Kaju Dog on March 08, 2009, 11:23:50 PM
Grateful to spend the next week as, "Mr Mom".  My wife is taking a well earned vacation to visit a friend and enjoy her self.  I get to enjoy seeing things from her perspective and have some quality time with our kids.   8-)

*(Note:  This is her first vacation without me or the kids in over 10yrs)
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Kaju Dog on March 15, 2009, 06:15:04 PM
Gratfull that Mrs Webster will be returning to the nest tonite.  It's been a challenging week, but rewarding as well. 

Gratfull to have been asked to work with the "Biggest Loosers" here on base.  (weight loss challenge).  I taught an hour of Tai Chi today and got a standing applause at the end of the work out. 

I didnt want to just drive then toward injury, as I feel most do.  So my goal was to give them some possitive energy with focus on promoting good health and injury prevention.  The time spent with them was very gratifying.  I had several approach after class, in regard to private lessons. :-) 8-)

Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on March 15, 2009, 06:27:25 PM
Grateful for the fatherly joys of watching my son play lacrosse today.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Karunamama on March 16, 2009, 08:45:07 AM
I'm grateful that this forum piqued my interest in Visayan Corto-Kadena, and got me in touch with Maija, who's a fantastic teacher of the Art.  Had a great time training with Maija when I visited SF with my family last week.  I'm also grateful for the gorgeous wether we had the week we were there, and that my back waited until AFTER we got home to tweak out on me.

Karen
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Tom Stillman on March 16, 2009, 02:58:51 PM
Grateful for a true friend who recently helped me get through what may have been the most difficult days of my life. :-)
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on March 16, 2009, 06:38:13 PM
Grateful for a burst of energy today, the feeling of starting some things anew, and trying to get a few small projects finished today.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on March 18, 2009, 12:22:56 AM
Grateful for a lot of new directions opening up.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Tom Stillman on March 18, 2009, 11:04:03 AM
Grateful that our creator has blessed this old man with the health and courage to experience another tribal gathering.  :-)
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on March 18, 2009, 12:41:54 PM
Woof!!!
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on March 19, 2009, 01:41:13 AM
Grateful that I was able tonight to introduce a student to some amazing people.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on March 19, 2009, 05:42:11 AM
Grateful for a conversation with my son.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Tom Stillman on March 19, 2009, 04:58:14 PM
Grateful for an inspirational story shared, of a friends perseverance in the face of sadness and loss of a loved one.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Scurvy Dog on March 19, 2009, 05:07:15 PM
It has been a hard year thus far for the “Scurvy Dog” Family. My wife and I both lost our jobs due to the sagging economy.  Subsequently we were then forced to sell one of our vehicles and eventually our home. However, throughout these trying times we have remained positive and upbeat and I am grateful and fortunate that my wife and I put little value in material things and instead place value in friendship, honor, integrity and living life to its fullest.

By living life in this manner, life has returned the favor and bestowed upon us a beautiful baby boy who was just born on St. Patrick’s Day, March 17th at 1:37am! Tristan Alec Ferguson comes into this world as a happy baby and I am grateful and fortunate to share this news with all of you! I wouldn’t trade this last year for anything even with its turbulent ups and downs. Life is an adventure and the best thing you can do is hold on and enjoy the ride! 

Take care guys and gals and I hope to see all of you again soon!  :-D

Best Wishes,
Tim “Scurvy Dog” Ferguson and baby Tristan
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: bjung on March 19, 2009, 05:24:41 PM
Congratulations!
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on March 19, 2009, 11:26:33 PM
Quote
It has been a hard year thus far for the “Scurvy Dog” Family. My wife and I both lost our jobs due to the sagging economy.  Subsequently we were then forced to sell one of our vehicles and eventually our home. However, throughout these trying times we have remained positive and upbeat and I am grateful and fortunate that my wife and I put little value in material things and instead place value in friendship, honor, integrity and living life to its fullest.

By living life in this manner, life has returned the favor and bestowed upon us a beautiful baby boy who was just born on St. Patrick’s Day, March 17th at 1:37am! Tristan Alec Ferguson comes into this world as a happy baby and I am grateful and fortunate to share this news with all of you! I wouldn’t trade this last year for anything even with its turbulent ups and downs. Life is an adventure and the best thing you can do is hold on and enjoy the ride! 

Take care guys and gals and I hope to see all of you again soon! 

Best Wishes,
Tim “Scurvy Dog” Ferguson and baby Tristan

I'm grateful for positive mindsets, like Scurvy's, in these hard times. Congrats, Tim.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on March 20, 2009, 11:04:10 PM
Thank you for the inspiration Scurvy Dog!  8-)
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Kaju Dog on March 21, 2009, 10:36:51 AM
Congrats to Scurvy Dog and Family.  I am honored to call you my Dog Brother and admire your good sense.  You are blessed and with your positive mental attitude things can only get better.  Everything happens for a reason and treasure the time you have with your young.  Before you know it, you will be working your but off again and wonder where the time went.

Let us know if we can be of any assistance.  We are all on the same roller coaster called life.  Lets help each other.

 :-)
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Tom Stillman on March 21, 2009, 07:43:28 PM
Scurvy, It sounds like you are blessed with a good woman. Hang in there bro. and remember, Good things come to good people. Keep the faith!
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on March 26, 2009, 11:10:22 PM
I'm grateful for endless possibilities.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Tom Stillman on March 26, 2009, 11:43:44 PM
 Grateful for an exciting business opportunity offered to me today.  :-)
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on March 27, 2009, 06:48:04 AM
Grateful for this thread and its daily reminder to have my mind right.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on March 28, 2009, 03:51:22 PM
Grateful to announce that my wife is 18 weeks pregnant with our second, and that we found out yesterday that Taiko (our son) is going to have a little sister!
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on March 29, 2009, 05:18:02 AM
Normally this thread is not for articles, but the reference to gratitude and its role in Life leads me to post this one here:

Margaret Somerville | Friday, 27 March 2009
The last great act of living

Legalising euthanasia would deny the full potential of the human spirit.

An extraordinary public exchange of letters between two Canadians over the past six months has illuminated in a very personal way the profound issues posed by death and all that leads to it. Ian Brown, who writes for the Globe and Mail, has a disabled son, Walker. Jean Vanier is the founder of L’Arche, a world-wide organization that provides a refuge and life-long home for intellectually disabled people. In their latest exchange of letters Brown asked Vanier, “Are you fearful of death?” Vanier replied, “No, I cannot say I am”.

This letter brought to mind many issues that I struggled with in a speech I gave recently in Ottawa called, “Dying as the Last Great Act of Living”. In it I explored the impact that legalizing euthanasia might have on the possibility of our experiencing death as such an act.

Some of the issues I examined were our fear of mystery and uncertainty, the nature of the “human spirit”, what an ethics of respect for human potentiality and its fulfillment would require in our treatment of old or dying people, and the role of hope in our lives and death.

Fear of mystery and uncertainty

Traditionally, as Jean Vanier’s writings show is still true for him, we have dealt with mystery of death, through religion or spirituality. But, now, many of us are not religious.

Mystery always involves uncertainty, which makes us feel we don’t have control and, in the case of death, that causes intense fear and free floating anxiety. One way to deal with that fear is to try to take control by converting the mystery of death to the problem of death and seeking a technological solution. Euthanasia can be seen as such a response: death is viewed as a problem, not a mystery, and the proposed solution to that problem is a lethal injection.

Euthanasia allows people to feel that although they can’t avoid death, they can control its manner, time and place. It’s a terror reduction or terror control mechanism that operates at both the individual and societal level. So if we believe legalizing euthanasia would be a very bad idea, we need to develop and communicate other ways to deal with our fear of death.

The human spirit

One such way is to enrich our experience of the “human spirit”. In both his actions and words Jean Vanier movingly and beautifully manifests and describes his experience of the “human spirit”. It’s a term I use in a religiously neutral sense, in that it can be accepted by people who are not religious and those who are, and, if religious, no matter what their religion. By it I mean the intangible, immeasurable, numinous reality that all of us need access to in order to find meaning in life and to make life worth living; that deeply intuitive sense of relatedness or connectedness to all life, especially other people, to the world, and to the universe in which we live; the metaphysical – but not necessarily supernatural - reality which we need to experience to live fully human lives.

Vanier speaks repeatedly of the deep suffering caused by loneliness, which can be especially acute for old or terminally ill people – the latter often encounter “intense pre-mortem loneliness”. Loneliness is the opposite experience to that of the human spirit – it’s the feeling of disconnection from others and our world, a sense of profound isolation.

The human spirit is the means through which we can generate the feeling of belonging to something larger than ourselves, that is, transcendence - an experience values’ surveys show people are increasingly longing to encounter – and perhaps transformation. Vanier is a powerful example of living a life based on values that are the opposite of intense individualism and narcissism – both dominant features of our societies and entities that make the human spirit harder to find and experience.

A narcissist sees other people only in terms of how they can benefit him – that is, as instruments or objects. That approach leads to positions such as that taken by an Australian politician arguing for legalizing euthanasia. He justifies it in this way: “When you are past your 'best before' or 'use by' date, you should be checked out as quickly, cheaply and efficiently as possible”.

One could not imagine Vanier speaking of people as products to be checked out of the supermarket of life.

An ethics of human potentiality

The profound wisdom, humanity and humanness of Jean Vanier’s approach to disability show us the opportunities that disability provides to “become more human”, to experience the essence of our humanness and to share it with others. We need to learn from him how to approach old age and the disability that can entail, and death.

As is true for romanticizing disability, there is a grave danger in romanticizing death, which is not the same as respecting its mystery – the latter requires looking tough realities in the face and struggling to live with them and finding meaning in doing so. Vanier does not romanticize disability, but shows us how one can find hope, joy and love despite – or perhaps in part – because of it.

Vanier’s approach to disabled people epitomizes respect for the mystery of life. In contrast, some people are using reprogenetic technoscience to convert the mystery of the passing on of life to our children to a controlled technological process, including by identifying and eliminating those who would be disabled. This approach causes not only a loss of respect for the mystery of life, but also, for the mystery of death.

In his life and work at L’Arche, Vanier shows the extraordinary flourishing of the human spirit that can occur when a certain kind of love – a truly unselfish, non-self-centred love – is made central to ordinary daily life. His radical, counter-contemporary-culture message is that we “non-disabled” people are the losers in refusing to accept disabled people and rejecting the unique gifts they have to offer us as individuals and societies.

Vanier’s writings gently show that among the many gifts disabled people can offer us are lessons in hope, optimism, kindness, empathy, compassion, generosity and hospitality, a sense of humour (balance), trust and courage. But, as he recognizes, to do that they must be treated justly; given every person’s right to the freedom to be themselves; and respected as members of our community. That requires us to accept the suffering, weakness and fragility we see in them, which means, as Vanier emphasizes, we must first accept those realities in relation to ourselves. Most of us find that an enormous challenge and flee.

The ethical tone of a society is not set by how it treats its strongest, most powerful members, but by how it treats those who are weakest, most vulnerable and in need. Jean Vanier’s life and work is testament to an amazing example in the latter respect.

His remarkable, uncommon “common humanity” shines through his words and deeds. We can learn from him how to enrich ourselves, others and our world through developing, experiencing and celebrating, to quote him, the “gifts of the heart” and putting into practice a “little sign of love in the world”.

So we must ask ourselves what are the “gifts of the heart” and what does putting into practice a “little sign of love in the world” require of us in how we treat people who are old and disabled or dying.

Hope

Hope is the oxygen of the human spirit; without it our spirit dies, with it we can overcome even seemingly insurmountable obstacles. Hope is generated by a sense of connection to the future. Ian Brown quotes “a still-lively 80-year-old [who] gave [him]… his formula for enthusiastically living in the world as you get older: 'Active engagement with the future,' he said. 'That's the secret.'” This old man is describing hope.

Even terminally ill people can have hope – what we can call “mini-hopes” – for instance, to stay alive long enough to see a grandchild born, to attend a daughter’s wedding, to see an old friend the next day or to see the sun rise and hear the birds’ dawn chorus.

Like hope, leaving a legacy also connects us to the future, one we will not see. Palliative care professionals try to help people to identify their legacy, their gifts to those who remain, because they know that can help them to die more peacefully. But those gifts must be accepted and valued by the receiver.

We must accept old or dying people’s gifts, especially those gifts that are of the essence of themselves, recognizing that they and the person who gives them are unique and precious, as are their lives or last days on earth. In confirming the worth of these gifts we confirm the worth of the giver, and the old or dying person needs that confirmation. But often we refuse and for same reason that we reject disabled persons’ gifts. We are frightened: This person is not me and could not be me – that is, dis-identification is the way we deal with our fear. It seems that all of us have a deep fear of dying alone. Might that be, in part, because, then, there is no one to receive our gifts and affirm the worth of our contribution to life?

And might we be able to deal with old age and death with greater equanimity, if we can experience a sense of gratitude for life and might the gifts we can leave help us to feel that? Another way to experience such gratitude is captured by one of my close friends, who talks about “saving up beautiful memories for when you are dying”. I think that’s a “gratitude in practice” response.

The challenge is to maintain death as the last great act of human life, a final human act through which we can still find meaning and, I suggest most importantly, pass meaning on to others.

In other words, in our dying, we need to be given the opportunity to leave a legacy of meaning. We are meaning seeking beings – that seeking is of the essence of our humanness. Euthanasia is a predictable response to a loss of meaning in relation to death and its practice would augment that loss. Even if we believe that doesn’t matter, we should be concerned, because our capacity to find meaning in life may well depend on our being able to find meaning in death.

Margaret Somerville is director of the Centre for Medicine, Ethics and Law at McGill University, and author of The Ethical Imagination: Journeys of the Human Spirit.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Mike on March 29, 2009, 07:04:24 AM

Grateful for beiing healthy in general. (My girlfriend's dad passed away this month, after fighting one year against his cancer, and he only reached 56 years.)
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Kaju Dog on March 29, 2009, 05:24:14 PM
Sorry to hear of the losses our Brothers have endured recently.  Gratfull to have the tribe here for one another.

Gratfull for the blessings our members and tribe has received in the way of new additions to the family(s).

Gratfull for a great day teaching at the monthly KajuPit Fight Team Camp and for the effort put in by all the FT members and coaches.

Gratfull that my knee felt stable and was up to some stress.  (Certainly my knee has and is a concern with the upcomming Gathering, but if it feels like it did today, I should be alright.)

 :mrgreen:
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Mike on March 30, 2009, 12:28:16 AM

Grateful for having some real friends around me.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Mike on March 31, 2009, 04:10:40 AM

Grateful for a successful movement from one town to another one yesterday.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on March 31, 2009, 09:09:53 PM
I am grateful to be in a very nasty ill-humored mood, ready to rip anyone's head off.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on April 02, 2009, 11:14:26 PM
Grateful for a nice evening of training to lead into this weekend.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on April 06, 2009, 06:23:25 PM
Grateful for a punishing weekend of stickfighting, amongst a like-minded group of men of whom I am truly HONORED to be a part.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Sisco T. on April 08, 2009, 04:20:31 AM
 grateful for easter because it brings spring break which = a couple of xtra full weekdays i get to spend with my son and daughter. there may be no better feeling than being able to just be with your children.


 Francisco
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on April 08, 2009, 09:22:42 PM
Grateful for some time off.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on April 15, 2009, 08:02:50 PM
I'm grateful for the knowledge that the sun will rise tomorrow and that a challenging time will soon be behind me.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on April 15, 2009, 09:30:57 PM
Grateful to take my son from school this afternoon to go to the Tea Party tax protest  :evil:
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on May 05, 2009, 05:48:13 AM
De-Kvetching


By Tzvi Freeman

The more good news you bring The Boss, the less need you will have to complain about the opposite. Meditate on those things you have to be thankful for, and the things to kvetch about will slowly disappear.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Karunamama on May 12, 2009, 08:22:18 AM
Grateful that the family and I made it safely through the "inland hurricane" that tore through the midwest.  We have a hole in the garage roof, but the house is OK, so we're luckier than a lot of other people.  Finally have power back after four days without.  At least I got to practice cutting with a machete when we helped a friend clear a fallen tree out of her yard. 

Karen
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: c - Shadow Dog on May 16, 2009, 05:08:17 AM
spring rain
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Stickgrappler on May 16, 2009, 09:38:50 AM
Grateful to Chad for posting some Lyoto Machida info!


Grateful to be able to walk for 90 mins with my family after dinner last night.

Grateful to be able to jump rope while kids ride bikes and scooters outside the house today.

Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: pau on May 16, 2009, 07:52:31 PM
Well im thankful im not sick with the swine flue nor any one i know  :-D   

Greats form MEXICO
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Tom Stillman on May 16, 2009, 08:35:01 PM
 Grateful for another day breathing and the want to do so.  :-)
Title: Woman
Post by: Crafty_Dog on May 22, 2009, 11:23:57 AM
Quote of the Day   

 

"Whatever  you give a woman, she will make greater. If you give her sperm, she'll give you  a baby. If you give her a house, she'll give you a home. If you give her  groceries, she'll give you a meal. If you give her a smile, she'll give you her  heart. She multiplies and enlarges what is given to her. So, if you give her any crap, be ready to receive a ton of shit."

 

Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: califkali on May 22, 2009, 08:10:55 PM
Dean and other military members. Thank you for serving our Country. I talked to my son today, he and his wife are in the same fleet, but could not tell me when they will be home. God Bless Real Americans who love our Country.    Craig
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on May 24, 2009, 11:17:50 AM
Grateful to have had my two-year-old sleep over my folks' so that my wife and I could go to a party and sleep in before our BBQ today, for which I am also grateful!
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Stickgrappler on May 27, 2009, 10:17:01 AM
i am grateful to Pretty Kitty and Guro Crafty Dog and the US Postal Service - i've received my key fob as well as Kali Tudo 1 and 2 dvd's today! woohoo!
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on May 28, 2009, 11:04:28 PM
Grateful for a good training session which I went to despite a nagging urge to stay home.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on May 29, 2009, 01:04:36 PM
Grateful for Adventure!
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Stickgrappler on May 29, 2009, 01:38:23 PM
grateful for dividend reinvestments! saved my month.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on May 29, 2009, 08:34:39 PM
Grateful for something to be coming to an end shortly.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on May 30, 2009, 09:09:30 PM
Grateful for a nice day spent with my family at a museum.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Kaju Dog on May 30, 2009, 09:44:15 PM
Grateful for the blessings as they come...

My Wife (Dana) entered us into a Lottery with the Base Housing company.  We won free admission and lunch at the Wild Water Adventure Park in Clovis, CA. 

Spent all day in the sun playing with my family.  A great day was had by ALL!!!

http://www.wildwater.net/pages/parkmap (http://www.wildwater.net/pages/parkmap)

 :mrgreen: :mrgreen: :mrgreen:
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Tom Stillman on May 30, 2009, 10:28:27 PM
Grateful for a day at the beach with my daughter. A nice break from the Phoenix Arizona heat!
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on June 01, 2009, 09:54:04 PM
Grateful for surviving a new workout.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on June 02, 2009, 04:03:12 PM
Grateful for feedback on an important document.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on June 04, 2009, 10:47:08 PM
Grateful for a successful meeting yesterday regarding a major project.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on June 05, 2009, 03:08:31 AM
Grateful for my son's season in lacrosse.  He has grown mightily from the experience.  There is no greater joy for a father.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on June 08, 2009, 06:34:02 PM
Grateful for this forum.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Kaju Dog on June 08, 2009, 07:40:35 PM
... for a GREAT Birthday weekend and a huge present from my wife and inlaws.  Pics to come  :mrgreen:

... for a wonderful time last Saturday, with GM Cacoy (90 yrs young and still swingin sticks)

... for Chinese "Foot Massage"  :wink:   :-o
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on June 30, 2009, 02:45:07 PM
Grateful that this thread is here every day, reminding me , , ,
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Tom Stillman on July 01, 2009, 12:20:19 PM
Grateful to be spending the first two full weeks of summer with my 7 yr. old daughter,  just hanging around by the pool and doing whatever we want all day. 8-)
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on July 01, 2009, 10:52:33 PM
Grateful for getting some work done that has been hanging over my head for a long time.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on July 02, 2009, 05:46:15 AM
Grateful for time with my children.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Sebresos on July 02, 2009, 05:50:58 AM
Grateful for my gas grill and tri tip!!! 8-)
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: C-Kumu Dog on July 02, 2009, 09:15:51 PM
Grateful to be putting the ring on my sweetie's finger this weekend and that family is here to witness the event.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on July 02, 2009, 11:17:55 PM
Congratulations!!!
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: tiburon2112 on July 03, 2009, 08:35:07 AM
Grateful for having the opportunity to spend a week of Boy Scout camping with my son.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on July 03, 2009, 09:28:26 PM
Grateful to be having a joint 4th of July/birthday party tomorrow with friends and family. My birthday isn't until the 6th, but I like the two bird with one stone aspect.  ;D
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on July 05, 2009, 09:19:22 PM
I am on Pacific Standard Time. In three hours, when my clock hits midnight, it's July 6th, and I turn 31.

I'm grateful for having a very full life, and for having been supported in what I have been able to do in my 31 years.
I'm grateful or having survived my more self-destructive years, and enjoying the new peace in my life.
I'm grateful for my wife and son (and daughter on the way).
I'm grateful for these boards, DBMA, and the great people I have met through the organization.

Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: bedens on July 07, 2009, 12:08:51 PM
I'm grateful for my younger son's finish of 16th in the world at the Odyssey Of The Mind World Finals this year.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on July 07, 2009, 09:11:19 PM
I'm grateful for finding several people willing to help me move forward.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on July 08, 2009, 12:40:07 PM
Grateful for apparently successful dental surgery (laying foundation for two missing teeth).
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on July 09, 2009, 01:42:39 PM
Grateful to finish my statistics class.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Kaju Dog on July 09, 2009, 02:47:34 PM
For the motivation I get from reading my DB's blog... 

If you haven't taken the time, please do.

http://ironpunk.blogspot.com/ (http://ironpunk.blogspot.com/)

Woof Dog Pound, you rock!

KD :mrgreen:
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: C-Kumu Dog on July 09, 2009, 10:19:33 PM
Grateful for an awesome weekend with family.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Kaju Dog on July 11, 2009, 10:39:12 PM
...for good weather and the improvements to Mount Soledad. Never Forget... for this we shall defend.

(http://i211.photobucket.com/albums/bb35/Webster-KajuPit/Deans%20Family%20Photos/SDtripDND003.jpg)

(http://i211.photobucket.com/albums/bb35/Webster-KajuPit/Deans%20Family%20Photos/SDtripDND009.jpg)

For getting to spend time with one of my students from the early days, Cpl Greg Gedese.  He started Kajukenbo prior to going into the Marines.  He has excelled as a member of 1st Recon BN and has just returned from Iraq.

(http://i211.photobucket.com/albums/bb35/Webster-KajuPit/Deans%20Family%20Photos/SDtripDND010.jpg)
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Stickgrappler on July 13, 2009, 09:28:09 AM
woof KD,

nice pix... thank you for sharing.

--------

i am grateful to Chad for starting the UFC Fantasy League - ALL DOGS GO TO HEAVEN

i am grateful for beginner's luck - picked the winner correctly 10 out of 11 fights as well as a few other variables in UFC 100 for All Dogs Go To Heaven fantasy league
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Stickgrappler on July 16, 2009, 01:09:18 PM
grateful that midday Nouriel Roubini aka “Dr. Doom” said we have seen the worst, recession over at the end of '09.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on July 26, 2009, 03:57:08 PM
Grateful for progress.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Stickgrappler on July 29, 2009, 09:39:21 AM
I'm grateful my wife's cooking... last night... curry chicken!
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Kaju Dog on July 29, 2009, 10:55:46 AM
Gratfull it's almost pay day   :wink:
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Kaju Dog on August 01, 2009, 03:46:55 PM
For Brothers like Crafty and the rest of the Tribe.  Unknown to all, is the life you save by beating this mutt with your sticks.  Much appreciation to Crafty and Cindy for your kindness.  The VL came just intime to kindle my spirit.  I only hope to be there for you if there is ever a need.

Semper Fidelis & Semper Fortis from Mount Soledad,

(http://i211.photobucket.com/albums/bb35/Webster-KajuPit/5489_1173882595981_1495530236_30470.jpg)
(This we will defend)

Getting my med kit restocked and ready for September's Gathering of the Pack.

PS
please feel free to process payment for my recent order.  (but please do it quick or I may have to catch you on the next go round)

Love and respect,
KD
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on August 03, 2009, 09:53:10 PM
And profoundly grateful for your brotherly friendship and what you bring to our Tribe.

Grateful for the trip to Killeen, Texas this past weekend and for the Combatives tournament at Fort Hood today and all the fine soldiers I have met these past few days.  America is in your debt.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Stickgrappler on August 05, 2009, 10:32:04 AM
i'm grateful to be able to spend time with my kids watching some dvd's

past few nights AVATAR THE LAST AIRBENDER (very well done, lots of MA themes) and X-MEN (the 1990's series)

tonight THE GOONIES!
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on August 08, 2009, 07:29:27 PM
Grateful for forward momentum.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on August 08, 2009, 10:00:41 PM
A very enjoyable training session today.  Today I had my Art.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: bedens on August 10, 2009, 02:09:17 PM
Grateful for those of all ranks who gave of their time to help me reach 3rd dan.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on August 13, 2009, 09:24:28 PM
I'm grateful for this girl that I get to meet tomorrow.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on August 16, 2009, 05:56:21 PM
Awesome GD-- give her a hearty woof from the Tribe!

As for me, today I am grateful to have gotten together with my friend and djembe teacher Henrik in at a yoga school Topanga Canyon today where 5 of us played African drums for the women in the class to dance to.  LOTS of fun!  :mrgreen:
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Sebresos on August 17, 2009, 07:49:15 AM
Grateful for my Weber grill and a two pound tri-tip roast that is about to get torn apart. :-D
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on August 20, 2009, 05:06:53 PM
I'm grateful for the birth of my daughter, Katana Stoops. She arrived on August 14th weighing in at 7 pounds, 15 ounces.

(http://photos-b.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs196.snc1/6613_1227857816188_1221353308_30683561_5626970_n.jpg)

Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on August 21, 2009, 07:44:38 AM
Another Adventure begins!   

Blessings upon her and you.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: bedens on August 21, 2009, 10:06:16 AM
Congrats, Guide Dog!
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on August 24, 2009, 11:32:25 AM
Grateful for the kind words, and a walk I took with my wife, son, and daughter yesterday at dusk.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Dog Howie on August 26, 2009, 12:46:44 PM
Congrats m'man... very cool. As a father of 8 I'll tell you in advance that becoming a Dad is a really great thing. It's a tough thing but it is satisfying at the end of the day. - Howie
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on August 27, 2009, 01:03:01 PM
Grateful for the DBMA Camp in Toronto, grateful for the time visiting my mom with my family, and grateful to be home.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Tom Stillman on September 02, 2009, 08:15:12 PM
Grateful for a great 2 weeks of vacation in Arizona with my 7 year old daughter, fishing, swimming shopping and just hanging out. Toping it all off with a trip to Catalina island tomorrow. Life is sweet! :-)  also: Congrats to Guide Dog!
Title: Inches
Post by: Crafty_Dog on September 05, 2009, 04:35:51 PM
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=myyWXKeBsNk&feature=related
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on September 05, 2009, 09:03:38 PM
Guro C: Thank you for posing that. Oliver Stone has some films that really work for me ("JFK", "Any Given Sunday", "Natural Born Killers") and some films that don't work as well for me ("U-turn", "W."), but that man has a very unique style, and usually his movies are something to talk about, even if they don't work for you. I happen to love AGS. I think the whole film is interesting, and that's a pretty darn good cast!

Howie, and Tom: Thank you both for the kind words! Much appreciated.

Grateful for a nice evening spent swimming with family.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on September 26, 2009, 05:27:26 PM
Grateful for finding an amazing mentor for a huge project.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on September 28, 2009, 11:40:46 AM
Grateful for the belief that something about which I care a great deal will carry on.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on September 29, 2009, 07:59:56 AM
Grateful for progress that leads me to believe in a deadline.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on September 29, 2009, 11:33:58 AM
Grateful for the classes I teach.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Kaju Dog on September 29, 2009, 01:01:27 PM
Gratful for the family I have chosen, cause the family I was born with sucks!   :-o
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on September 30, 2009, 08:05:00 AM
My voice is pretty much gone from teaching last week, and a little family cold that keeps lingering. I'm at work today, letting my students read and make progress on their own. I'm grateful for a day that can be productive, but a little more quiet than usual.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on October 01, 2009, 10:49:28 AM
Grateful for the arrival October: Halloween, then Thanksgiving, then Christmas/Hanukkah, and then New Years! I love this time of year.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on October 02, 2009, 09:24:32 AM
I'm grateful for these boards and the richness of the DB community spirit!
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on October 02, 2009, 02:24:18 PM
Me too  8-)

Grateful a for a wonderful night's sleep and one of the strongest workouts I've had in a while today.  Grateful its Friday afternoon and time to play with my children.

Life is good.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Kaju Dog on October 06, 2009, 09:22:03 PM
Gratful for all the new students that started class tonite.   :mrgreen:

Now, lets see how many stay  :wink:

All in all a good night.  As a teacher,  it's always a treat to witness the the grand openning of the conscious mind.   :-D

KD
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on October 07, 2009, 04:19:53 AM
Grateful to watch my children watch the movie "Airplane!" and share their laughter.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on October 08, 2009, 12:26:17 PM
Grateful to be enjoying the moment.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on October 09, 2009, 09:38:47 AM
Grateful to have the chance to help young people on a daily basis.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Kaju Dog on October 09, 2009, 11:08:40 AM
Gratful for the people that brought needful things to me over the last few days.  I am loading my truck with items that have been donated and a friend of mine is loading a shipping container at SF Bay to be shipped to American Samoa Tsunami victims.  She is flying home to help her family and making sure the container makes it to all the people within her ability to help.  Im driving to SF Saturday afternoon and I am also gratful for the kind offering of a place to rest my head before driving back home Sunday.

 8-) :-)
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on October 14, 2009, 08:19:02 AM
Grateful to catch up on some sleep last night.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on October 15, 2009, 03:30:48 PM
Had one of those days at work that simply needed to end. Nothing bad, or negative, just a little tired and ready to go home. Grateful tomorrow is Friday.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on October 16, 2009, 03:55:44 AM
Grateful that my children have the day off from school today and that I get to spend it with them.  Grateful to see my good friend and djembe teacher today too.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Kaju Dog on October 16, 2009, 07:10:27 AM
TGIF!

Gratful to have made it through this week without letting my emotions take control during certain challenges this week.  It's been a week long test of self control.

Gratful that my new students are being consistent.  Showing up is half the battle...
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: CrazyCossack on October 16, 2009, 12:05:28 PM
Grateful work is done for the week, that there's people out there who invent awesome things like the inverted de la riva gaurd, grateful I get to train that tonight, and grateful for possible flip cup tournament tommorow.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on October 19, 2009, 07:21:31 AM
Grateful for my son's lacrosse workout yesterday-- he's really starting to move forward.  Happy dad!
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Dog Howie on October 19, 2009, 09:10:32 AM
KD: Did you kids get over H1N1 yet?
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Kaju Dog on October 19, 2009, 01:22:25 PM
KD: Did you kids get over H1N1 yet?

Yes,  Thank you for asking.  All the little ones are doing well now.  :)
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on October 27, 2009, 09:27:38 AM
Grateful for all the support and encouragement I have received from DBMA over the last few years.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Kaju Dog on October 27, 2009, 11:23:48 AM
Gratful for my 3 terrific kids...  and the words than come from mouths of children  I feel truely blessed for having such great kids!

For surviving my tour in Iraq and knowing that every day since is truely a gift not to be taken for granted.  

Remember to make the best of every day for these are some of the Warriors that lay in my care during my deployment in 2005.
Some days hit me harder than others...  (thanks for giving me the opportunity to express myself on this forum).

LCpl Crumpler is one of those faces that I go to sleep with everynight.  The Marine placing the helmet on the rifle is Sgt Roth (A Marine that has become not only a Brother in Arms but also one of my Kajukenbo Black Belts).  Sgt Roth continues to teach Kajukenbo to Marine Special Operations Command in Jacksonville, NC.

At 3:42 on the far right of the screen front row with black utility belt over top of the blouse is me. "Doc" Webster  :cry:

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=krAhUs32q2s[/youtube]

Below is some footage from a couple of our operations while there.

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8lOuIObwcak[/youtube]

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cIxcGw1rZ78[/youtube]
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Dog Howie on October 27, 2009, 01:27:45 PM
Grateful that oldest sonfinished rehab andl "wants" to be in a long term program. First time I've seen him "want" to get help... for those who have been around  such unpleasantries as drug addiction, "wanting" help is where it starts.His jury is WAY still out but it's a start.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Kaju Dog on October 27, 2009, 01:34:49 PM
Grateful that oldest sonfinished rehab andl "wants" to be in a long term program. First time I've seen him "want" to get help... for those who have been around  such unpleasantries as drug addiction, "wanting" help is where it starts.His jury is WAY still out but it's a start.

Thats great news and a possitive start in the right direction.  Gratful for your sharing that news.  Your son has been on my mind and constantly in my thoughts and prayers..

PS
I emailed you last night Howie.  Did you get it?  I will be following up on your PM shortly. 

Woof,
Dean
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on October 28, 2009, 12:33:28 PM
Grateful for having both of my kids fall asleep at the same time yesterday.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on October 29, 2009, 07:49:02 AM
This week, for the first time in a while, I have been having the feeling of "just getting by" in a few life areas. First, I'm grateful to have "gotten by". Second, I'm grateful to be able to recognize that I need to work harder to do more than just "get by".
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Kaju Dog on October 29, 2009, 10:11:21 AM
Gratful for a great class last night in Visalia, I showed up early and helped teach the kids class  :-o , after that it was adult class....  Goodtimes

Gratful being above ground for a little while longer in this life.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on October 30, 2009, 08:04:53 PM
Grateful for my mom and my grandmother who are both local, and both willing to help my wife and I with the monsters, I mean our little ones.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on October 31, 2009, 01:31:52 PM
Grateful to have another Halloween arrive. Be safe, and have fun everyone!
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on November 01, 2009, 08:28:47 AM
Grateful to have watched "It's the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown" last night with my wife and kids.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on November 02, 2009, 08:49:46 AM
Grateful to have had something work out the way I was hoping it would!
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on November 03, 2009, 08:50:27 AM
Grateful for getting some things taken care of that needed taking care of for a while.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on November 04, 2009, 07:31:42 AM
Grateful to have returned to a martial arts school I really love last night, and hung in for four classes after quite a few months off.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on November 04, 2009, 04:04:49 PM
Grateful for a wonderful day full of Adventure!
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Kaju Dog on November 05, 2009, 07:03:45 AM
Gratful for receiving some much needed gear for the classes I teach at Naval Air Station Lemoore.

Gratful for being granted an opportunity to start a Sunday DBTG out of my teachers school in Visalia.  Starts the 1st Sunday in Jan. 2010.

Announced this last night to the students in class at Kajupit MMA and received many possitive responses.

Please note:  If anyone from the forum here is ever in the Central Valley area, you are always welcome to come train with the Kajupit and Kajudog family free of any charge.  We would love to share with you and hopefully have you share with us.

With respect always,
KD 8-)
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on November 05, 2009, 07:41:33 AM
Grateful for...having an off day, feeling a little negative, and I was tempted to write, "I'm not grateful for sh&%", and that's not true.

Yesterday, my father had some cells scraped out of his bladder, and there had been worry he was going to lose a kidney. The kidney looks great and will stay, and while we wait to hear about the nature of the cells, the doctor said everything looked better than expected, and is already mostly sure it's not cancer. I'm grateful for that.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on November 06, 2009, 07:38:03 AM
Grateful for it only being 7:30 in the morning, and I already am having a better day than yesterday!
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Kaju Dog on November 06, 2009, 08:27:29 AM
Gratful for another great class last night with motivated Marines and Sailors.

Gratful for receiving the many blessings that helped make it all happen.

Very Gratful that it is FRIDAY!
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on November 06, 2009, 09:44:00 AM
Grateful for a day of rest.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on November 09, 2009, 10:00:16 AM
Grateful for a productive weekend, two days at work, Wednesday off, and two more days at work before another weekend!
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on November 10, 2009, 07:38:08 AM
Grateful to have some really fun things come together at work.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on November 11, 2009, 05:09:30 PM
Grateful for all those who serve, and who have served in the military.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Kaju Dog on November 12, 2009, 07:14:23 AM
Gratful for not touching any computer at all for any reason on Veterans day.   :mrgreen:
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on November 12, 2009, 08:02:04 AM
Grateful to be home.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on November 12, 2009, 10:56:17 AM
Grateful for my memories of someone who left us way too young.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: DougMacG on November 12, 2009, 10:14:08 PM
I am grateful for the military police who shot the Ft. Hood killer.

Guide Dog on Veterans Day already thanked all who served and I belatedly second that, to those I don't even know, to my own father and to my grandfathers before him.  I am grateful.

I wish I could single out and thank everyone who served, but here's one great American.  I ran across this reading about the Fort Hood victims.  This could be under rest in peace, but I just want to say I am grateful for amazing courage and service:
------
Sgt. Amy Krueger

Krueger, 29, of Kiel, Wis., joined the Army after the 2001 terrorist attacks and had vowed to take on Usama bin Laden, her mother, Jeri Krueger said.

Amy Krueger arrived at Fort Hood on Tuesday and was scheduled to be sent to Afghanistan in December, the mother told the Herald Times Reporter of Manitowoc.

Jeri Krueger recalled telling her daughter that she could not take on bin Laden by herself.

"Watch me," her daughter replied.

Kiel High School Principal Dario Talerico told The Associated Press that Krueger graduated from the school in 1998 and had spoken at least once to local elementary school students about her career.

"I just remember that Amy was a very good kid, who like most kids in a small town are just looking for what their next step in life was going to be and she chose the military," Talerico said. "Once she got into the military, she really connected with that kind of lifestyle and was really proud to serve her country."
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on November 13, 2009, 08:14:47 AM
Grateful to work close to home.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Kaju Dog on November 13, 2009, 08:47:40 AM
Gratful for an enjoyable class last night with like minded psychos. 

Gratful to be able to help a friend tonite.

Gratful that Night Owl is done working his magic and for the 2009 gathering pics to be up soon. 8-)
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on November 16, 2009, 07:50:36 PM
Grateful for my current mood.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on November 17, 2009, 09:10:12 AM
Grateful for temporary order.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Growling Dog on November 18, 2009, 06:59:15 AM
arm getting stronger, did 2 chin-ups yesterday with no pain can finally focus on training again for that i am greatfull
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on November 18, 2009, 08:08:53 AM
Grateful to be in a good mood today, and grateful to feel anticipation for a three hour Silat seminar this evening.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on November 22, 2009, 02:54:24 PM
Grateful that Thanksgiving, and the winter holidays are not far off.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on November 23, 2009, 08:45:24 AM
Grateful to work with some nice people.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on November 24, 2009, 07:35:59 AM
Grateful to have be looking forward to a nice end to the work week, and a nice Thanksgiving.
Title: Count your blessings
Post by: Crafty_Dog on November 25, 2009, 12:09:16 PM


Count Your Blessings
"These are the times that try men's souls. The summer soldier and the sunshine patriot will, in this crisis, shrink from the service of his country; but he that stands it now, deserves the love and thanks of man and woman." --Thomas Paine
We call the primary gathering place in our home "the warm room" because at its center hearth is a woodstove. This room is where we gather in the evening after the day's tasks and our family dinner.

This past Sunday night, my family surrounded me in our warm room, each of us doing something that we enjoy. I was reading, my wife was checking e-mail, my older son was bantering with my daughter, and my youngest son was assembling his latest Lego creation.

It was the first day of Thanksgiving week, but giving thanks was not really on my mind. I was content just to relax with my family after a good meal.

Then my cell phone chimed brusquely. I was piqued by the interruption, mostly in anticipation that when that phone rings on a Sunday night, there's usually something seriously wrong somewhere that requires my attention.

To my pleasant surprise, when I answered, a familiar voice, although faint due to the satellite connection, was on the other end. It was an Air Force friend stationed in Bagram, in the Parwan province of Afghanistan, calling to say hello and provide an update on his status.

Needless to say, he is far away from his family, who will be without him for Thanksgiving and probably Christmas. And yes, his call prompted immediate gratitude on my part for the casual and cozy evening that I was enjoying, with my family, in the comfort of our home.

The next morning, I returned from a meeting to my SUV, parked on a city street, and found in the dust between the Navy Jack on the rear window and the "Support Our Troops" magnet on the bumper, someone had scrawled, "World Peace!" I am quite sure that the author was misguidedly implying some contradiction between pride in our military forces and achievement of world peace.

Undoubtedly, the poor soul who soiled his pinkie to leave that message has never taken an oath to support and defend our Constitution, much less undertaken any action to that end at risk of personal injury or death. Thus, what this anonymous peacenik fails to realize is that nobody wants world peace more than our front-line soldiers, sailors, airmen and Marines -- the very warriors fighting for that peace.

I am grateful for our uniformed Patriots, who, like my friend in Bagram, are defending liberty in places far away, so that we may live in peace at home, and I am grateful for their families, who bear a great burden with their loved one's absence.

But, as I contemplate our national day of Thanksgiving, beyond gratitude for my immediate blessings, I am greatly concerned about the trials that we, as a people, now face in the wake of this unprecedented assault upon our Constitution. For I am certain that the resulting collectivist government policies, left unchecked, will smother our free market system and our legacy of liberty.

You know the story of our First Thanksgiving, the three-day Pilgrim feast of 1621, after nearly half their company had died during the preceding winter. (I have posted an Account of the First Harvest Feast and Thanksgiving for those of you might like to read it to your families before the Thanksgiving meal.)

What you may not know, however, is that, in an effort to improve production at Plymouth Plantation, a collectivist policy was implemented in 1622 which almost destroyed the remainder of the settlement.

Plymouth Colony's governor, William Bradford, recorded in his history of the Colony that, to forestall another failed crop season, he would allot each family a plot of land, and mandate that "all profits & benefits that are got by trade, working, fishing, or any other means" must be forfeited to a common storehouse in order that "all such persons as are of this colony, are to have their meat, drink, apparel, and all provisions out of the common stock."

In theory, Bradford believed that this would be good for the Colony since each family would receive equal share of produce without regard to their contribution.

Unfortunately, then as now, collectivism works only in theory.

Bradford wrote that his plan failed because it undermined the incentive to produce, noting that it "was found to breed much confusion and discontent, and retard much employment that would have been to their benefit and comfort."

After the abysmal results in 1622, Bradford wrote that the Colony leaders contemplated "how they might raise as much corn as they could, and obtain a better crop."

They then decided to trade their collectivist plan for a free market approach, and in 1623, Bradford wrote, "This had very good success, for it made all hands very industrious, so as much more corn was planted than otherwise would have been by any other means the Governor or any other could use. ... Instead of famine now God gave them plenty and the face of things was changed, to the rejoicing of the hearts of many. ... Any general want or famine hath not been amongst them since to this day."

As a direct consequence, the Colony celebrated a much greater Day of Thanksgiving in 1623.

The conclusion was obvious. Given liberty and incentive to be industrious, their Colony thrived. Indeed, by 1624, production was so abundant that the Colony exported corn back to England.

And for generations since, to the extent that men have been set at perfect liberty to establish free markets, to produce goods and services without having profits seized for redistribution, our nation has thrived.

Yet once again, our governors are contemplating collectivist policies of the sort that failed in 1622 and have failed many times since, giving credence to the aphorism, "Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it."

My fellow Patriots, never in the history of our country has there been such an acute, coordinated and vicious assault upon our rights and upon the structures established to protect those rights. From individuals, to state governments, to federal institutions initiated at the dawn of our Constitution, nothing -- absolutely nothing -- is sacred to the leftists currently controlling our nation's capital.

But take heart, for as George Washington wrote in the darkest days of our American Revolution, "We should never despair, our Situation before has been unpromising and has changed for the better, so I trust, it will again. If new difficulties arise, we must only put forth new Exertions and proportion our Efforts to the exigency of the times."

Of such exertions, Washington wrote, "It is the duty of all Nations to acknowledge the providence of Almighty God, to obey his will, to be grateful for his benefits, and humbly to implore his protection and favors."

So it is that on Thanksgiving Day of this week, we are called upon to pause and take respite; to acknowledge the divine intervention of our Creator in the affairs of this great nation; to recommit ourselves to obeisance of His will; to express our gratitude and give Him all thanks and praise for the bounty which He has bestowed upon us.

We yet live in the land of the free, the home of the brave, that shining city on a hill, and for it, we humbly implore that He protect us and grant us much favor in our coming struggle to re-establish The Rule of Law over the rule of men.

For that and for each of you, fellow Patriots, I am grateful!

Have a blessed Thanksgiving.

Semper Vigilo, Fortis, Paratus et Fidelis!

Mark Alexander
Publisher, PatriotPost.US

Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on November 26, 2009, 07:58:41 AM
Quote
So it is that on Thanksgiving Day of this week, we are called upon to pause and take respite; to acknowledge the divine intervention of our Creator in the affairs of this great nation; to recommit ourselves to obeisance of His will; to express our gratitude and give Him all thanks and praise for the bounty which He has bestowed upon us.

I will admit that these lines made me stop and reflect that for the most part, the Thanksgivings of my family have become quite secular. There is a great deal gratitude expressed, but our Creator is rarely credited. I need to spend some time thinking about this, as we will start our first Thanksgiving meal in a few hours, and then drive a ways to eat a later meal with extended family.

I'm a high school teacher, and the day before Thanksgiving (as I did yesterday) I show the following digital video every year in my classes. I'm sure many of you out there have probably seen it. it is a little heavy, but I don't think it has to define the tone of your Thanksgiving, just make you take a moment and reflect

http://www.miniature-earth.com/

I am grateful for the safe birth of my daughter in the summer. I'm grateful to have a job this year. When my wife recently called the paramedics in terrible pain, I'm grateful it turned out to only be kidney stones, which have since passed.

Happy Thanksgiving to all of you, your families, and your friends.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on November 26, 2009, 08:05:11 AM
George Washington's 1789 Thanksgiving Proclamation

Whereas it is the duty of all nations to acknowledge the providence of Almighty God, to obey His will, to be grateful for His benefits, and humbly to implore His protection and favor; and Whereas both Houses of Congress have, by their joint committee, requested me to "recommend to the people of the United States a day of public thanksgiving and prayer, to be observed by acknowledging with grateful hearts the many and signal favors of Almighty God, especially by affording them an opportunity peaceably to establish a form of government for their safety and happiness:"

Now, therefore, I do recommend and assign Thursday, the 26th day of November next, to be devoted by the people of these States to the service of that great and glorious Being who is the beneficent author of all the good that was, that is, or that will be; that we may then all unite in rendering unto Him our sincere and humble thanks for His kind care and protection of the people of this country previous to their becoming a nation; for the signal and manifold mercies and the favorable interpositions of His providence in the course and conclusion of the late war; for the great degree of tranquility, union, and plenty which we have since enjoyed; for the peaceable and rational manner in which we have been enable to establish constitutions of government for our safety and happiness, and particularly the national one now lately instituted for the civil and religious liberty with which we are blessed, and the means we have of acquiring and diffusing useful knowledge; and, in general, for all the great and various favors which He has been pleased to confer upon us.

And also that we may then unite in most humbly offering our prayers and supplications to the great Lord and Ruler of Nations and beseech Him to pardon our national and other transgressions; to enable us all, whether in public or private stations, to perform our several and relative duties properly and punctually; to render our National Government a blessing to all the people by constantly being a Government of wise, just, and constitutional laws, discreetly and faithfully executed and obeyed; to protect and guide all sovereigns and nations (especially such as have shown kindness to us), and to bless them with good governments, peace, and concord; to promote the knowledge and practice of true religion and virtue, and the increase of science among them and us; and, generally to grant unto all mankind such a degree of temporal prosperity as He alone knows to be best.

Given under my hand, at the city of New York, the 3d day of October, A.D. 1789.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on November 26, 2009, 08:26:50 AM
And here's one more-- this one has been running in the WSJ for 48 years now.

The Desolate Wilderness
A chronicle of the Pilgrims' arrival at Plymouth, as recorded by Nathaniel Morton

Here beginneth the chronicle of those memorable circumstances of the year 1620, as recorded by Nathaniel Morton, keeper of the records of Plymouth Colony, based on the account of William Bradford, sometime governor thereof:

So they left that goodly and pleasant city of Leyden, which had been their resting-place for above eleven years, but they knew that they were pilgrims and strangers here below, and looked not much on these things, but lifted up their eyes to Heaven, their dearest country, where God hath prepared for them a city (Heb. XI, 16), and therein quieted their spirits.

When they came to Delfs-Haven they found the ship and all things ready, and such of their friends as could not come with them followed after them, and sundry came from Amsterdam to see them shipt, and to take their leaves of them. One night was spent with little sleep with the most, but with friendly entertainment and Christian discourse, and other real expressions of true Christian love.

View Full Image
.The next day they went on board, and their friends with them, where truly doleful was the sight of that sad and mournful parting, to hear what sighs and sobs and prayers did sound amongst them; what tears did gush from every eye, and pithy speeches pierced each other's heart, that sundry of the Dutch strangers that stood on the Key as spectators could not refrain from tears. But the tide (which stays for no man) calling them away, that were thus loath to depart, their Reverend Pastor, falling down on his knees, and they all with him, with watery cheeks commended them with the most fervent prayers unto the Lord and His blessing; and then with mutual embraces and many tears they took their leaves one of another, which proved to be the last leave to many of them.

Being now passed the vast ocean, and a sea of troubles before them in expectations, they had now no friends to welcome them, no inns to entertain or refresh them, no houses, or much less towns, to repair unto to seek for succour; and for the season it was winter, and they that know the winters of the country know them to be sharp and violent, subject to cruel and fierce storms, dangerous to travel to known places, much more to search unknown coasts.

Besides, what could they see but a hideous and desolate wilderness, full of wilde beasts and wilde men? and what multitudes of them there were, they then knew not: for which way soever they turned their eyes (save upward to Heaven) they could have but little solace or content in respect of any outward object; for summer being ended, all things stand in appearance with a weatherbeaten face, and the whole country, full of woods and thickets, represented a wild and savage hew.

If they looked behind them, there was a mighty ocean which they had passed, and was now as a main bar or gulph to separate them from all the civil parts of the world.

These editorials have appeared annually since 1961.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on December 01, 2009, 09:25:57 AM
Grateful to have a slower work day with which to try and get over a little cough.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on December 02, 2009, 07:44:48 AM
Grateful to be able to find meaning in my work.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Kaju Dog on December 02, 2009, 09:25:29 AM
Gratful to have such a rewarding job, where I get to lay healing hands on people that serve our great nation.  :-)

Gratful for my incredible Wife and kids.   :-D
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on December 03, 2009, 06:09:51 PM
Grateful for the Adventure of each and every day.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on December 03, 2009, 09:25:20 PM
Grateful for small victories.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on December 04, 2009, 07:25:19 AM
Greateful for the ability to create, if only on a minor scale.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Kaju Dog on December 04, 2009, 10:11:08 AM
Gratful for the article on my school that appeared front page of "The Golden Eagle" Naval paper.  The article was front page shared with one on the MCPON (Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy) and General Petraeus...  One heck of a trifecta  8-)

Gratful for the high spirit of my students last night and their heart to keep going...  :-D

Gratful to have a new short term goal...  Conditioning for the April Gathering  :|
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on December 05, 2009, 02:27:18 PM
Grateful for a few hours today during which i don't have to be very busy.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on December 07, 2009, 07:26:19 AM
Grateful to be in a very productive period that is not far away from the winter holiday.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on December 08, 2009, 07:29:12 AM
I'm grateful that some days are perfectly easy.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on December 09, 2009, 08:11:07 AM
Grateful to feel awake, and alert today.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on December 10, 2009, 07:45:53 AM
Grateful to have some unique life epereinces to pull from to use at work.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on December 10, 2009, 08:00:18 AM
Grateful to have seen yesterday a very good friend for the first time in a long time.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Kaju Dog on December 10, 2009, 10:34:21 AM
Gratful for some good news yesterday...   :evil:
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on December 11, 2009, 01:39:54 PM
Grateful to have just completed a VERY meaningful work project in which I was able to involve family, and friends.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on December 12, 2009, 03:37:26 PM
Grateful for an intellectually fulfilling day.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on December 14, 2009, 08:43:08 AM
Grateful to have started the day being silly, which brought a general sense of feeling positive.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on December 16, 2009, 01:11:32 PM
Grateful to be close to vacation, but not DYING for it.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on December 17, 2009, 02:17:15 PM
Grateful to have completed a large amount of work today.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on December 18, 2009, 07:43:42 AM
Grateful to have nothing but an easy day of work before the winter break begins.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on December 19, 2009, 11:32:23 AM
Grateful for a productive morning.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on December 20, 2009, 05:40:34 AM
Grateful for a chance.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Kaju Dog on December 20, 2009, 07:22:25 PM
Gratful for a full day of rest today. 

Tank is recharged and ready to go...

Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on December 21, 2009, 10:58:09 AM
I'm at home, and pretty ill, but I am grateful it's not worse.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on December 24, 2009, 04:05:38 PM
Quote
I'm at home, and pretty ill, but I am grateful it's not worse.

I posted that before things really got bad. I was diagnosed with the flu, and Pneumonia on Monday night, so I've been living at my folks' house in an effort to keep my four month old healthy. I'm grateful for my parents, who insisted on taking me to urgent care the moment they heard I had a high temperature. This thing (which is going away) might be a lot deeper in my lungs if they hadn't acted. I'm bummed to be missing my little girl's first X-mas eve, and day, but I'm grateful that I'm not much more sick.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on December 27, 2009, 02:30:58 PM
Grateful for a slow day.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: michael on December 27, 2009, 02:55:30 PM
Grateful to have had my son, daughter-in-law, and granddaughter in for almost two weeks over the Christmas holidays.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: tiburon2112 on December 28, 2009, 04:33:37 PM
Grateful to share an outdoor experience with my 11-yr old son during his first deer hunt and kill in Louisiana on Chirstmas Eve. 

I'm reminded of the classic line, "I have never been happier, more exhilirated, at peace, rested, inspired, and aware of the grandeur of the universe and the greatness of God than when I find myself in a natural setting not much changed from the way He made it " ~ Jimmy C.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Tom Stillman on December 28, 2009, 05:29:22 PM
Grateful for the free time to hit the road in my motorhome to visit family and old friends.  8-)
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on December 28, 2009, 07:20:38 PM
Grateful for a nice meal with family, and the completion of a few minor errands.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on December 29, 2009, 09:17:58 AM
Grateful to begin something today.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on December 30, 2009, 10:05:54 AM
Grateful that I get to do what I do.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: rachelg on December 31, 2009, 06:56:26 AM
 I enjoyed a nice long meditative walk with my dog. The snow was very pretty and peaceful.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Kaju Dog on December 31, 2009, 11:21:09 AM
Gratful for the opporunities to not only teach but to also continue learning each and every day.

Gratful for my Wife feeling better today.  *She was very ill for the last couple days to the point that I had to give her an IV to rehydrate her body.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on December 31, 2009, 05:07:23 PM
Wow :-o

I bet she was grateful for you too!
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Kaju Dog on December 31, 2009, 09:24:22 PM
It goes without saying Guro C. 

I married my best friend, and she became the World to me...

Happy New Year Sir.

KD :-)
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on January 01, 2010, 03:08:32 PM
Grateful for all the things I learned in 2009.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on January 02, 2010, 12:43:18 PM
Grateful that some days quickly become "yesterday", and then "last week", and so on.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on January 03, 2010, 12:41:03 PM
Grateful to be returning to work tomorrow.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on January 05, 2010, 07:47:20 AM
Grateful to feel a bit more alert than yesterday.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on January 06, 2010, 08:05:32 AM
Grateful for a connection.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on January 07, 2010, 09:43:01 AM
Grateful that something unexpected did not wipe me out.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on January 08, 2010, 07:49:34 AM
Grateful for worthwhile sleep deprivation.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on January 09, 2010, 03:16:41 PM
Grateful for order where there was none before.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on January 10, 2010, 01:29:29 PM
Grateful for training time with someone I haven't seen in a long time.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on January 11, 2010, 07:24:46 AM
Grateful for the ending of a bad start to the day. I need to let it go, and get to work.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Maxx on January 11, 2010, 08:26:35 AM
I can Agree with Guide Dog. I am grateful to have training time with you old friend.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on January 12, 2010, 07:53:17 AM
Thanks, Maxx.

Today, I am grateful to have fixed something which was not working before.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on January 13, 2010, 07:44:28 AM
I'm grateful to almost be finished with another major piece of a large project. I am also grateful for the belief that I will finish today.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on January 13, 2010, 08:11:09 PM
I am grateful for the potentials revealed by this day.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on January 14, 2010, 07:38:53 AM
Thought I was getting sick AGAIN yesterday. Grateful to feel much better today!
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Kaju Dog on January 14, 2010, 08:17:16 AM
Gratful for our new addition to the family.  His name is Samson and we recently adopted him from a good home that could not provide ample room for his needs.  8 yr old pure bred Rottweiler...  Pictures will be posted in a couple days   :-D :mrgreen: :-D 8-)

Samson has only been with us 3 days and already my 4 y/o son was able to walk him with ease on our daily trek *(sans any help but with my watchful eye proudly observing)  We are truely blessed.

 :-)
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on January 15, 2010, 10:06:04 AM
Today a major Adventure concludes and new ones begin.

Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Tom Stillman on January 24, 2010, 08:25:03 PM
Grateful for being able to help  an old dear friend in a serious time of need. :-)
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: tiburon2112 on January 26, 2010, 03:44:24 PM
Grateful to the Hawai'i DBMA Clan for their combatives training, professional guidance, and brotherhood while in Oahu.  Bravo Zulu to Mike, Charles, Ko, Tom, Carlos, Marc, and Maria for your generosity and Island hospitality.  You will remain in my heart. God Bless, Ke Koa o Ke Kai 
 
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on January 28, 2010, 07:45:28 AM
Grateful for a nice few days that are coming up ahead, including today.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on January 29, 2010, 10:30:27 AM
Grateful to be having a fun, fast Friday at work!
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on February 02, 2010, 02:38:46 PM
Not to be pushy, or manipulative, but I'm grateful for my DBMA Association membership.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Kaju Dog on February 03, 2010, 01:42:03 PM
Gratful Howie got here in one piece  :-)

...So I can send him home in pieces        :lol:


He is adjusting to the TZ change and then we are heading to V-towns Kajupit with GM Harper running the class.

It's good to have someone around that "Gets" me  :?
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: rachelg on February 04, 2010, 06:05:21 PM
I'm very proud of my Brother who successfully defended his dissertation!!!
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on February 04, 2010, 06:24:15 PM
Grateful for Dog Randall to whom I wish a speedy return from Afghanistan.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on February 05, 2010, 07:23:50 AM
Grateful for a long weekend which includes the DBMA camp!
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on February 06, 2010, 07:10:17 PM
Grateful for a good day with nice people.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on February 07, 2010, 07:05:56 AM
Grateful for the fact that it's not raining this morning.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on February 08, 2010, 07:05:01 PM
Grateful for a great two days of training, followed by a nice Bowl party with family.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on February 09, 2010, 05:47:58 AM
Grateful for two days of training this past weekend with Kenny Johnson and a fine group at our Camp.

The Adventure continues!
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on February 09, 2010, 10:49:19 AM
Grateful for the room to be creative at work.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Dog Howie on February 09, 2010, 12:23:16 PM
Grateful for a great training seminar and honorable people to train with and train under.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on February 10, 2010, 12:10:53 PM
Grateful to have had a smaller piece of a larger whole meet with approval.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on February 11, 2010, 07:39:26 AM
Grateful for all that's right and good about our country. Perfect? No way, but there is a lot to be grateful for in this America of ours.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on February 12, 2010, 08:18:23 AM
In seven years as a public school teacher, I have never told my students that I train. We have a presentation and research paper coming up in my classes for which the students have to write about a special talent/hobby/or professional interest. I just presented a sample presentation in my first period class, and it went very well. I also felt very comfortable talking about my MA background with my students. I'm grateful for that.

Also, yesterday's gratitute post was in no way meant to take away from anyone from a country other than the States. I have really had my life enhanced by exposure to cultures other than my own.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on February 13, 2010, 03:36:41 PM
Grateful for the help of family.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Kaju Dog on February 13, 2010, 05:32:58 PM
Gratful for a possitive mental attitude, and courage to take the pain in the abscense of the same.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on February 16, 2010, 12:04:34 PM
After a difficult morning, I am glad that it's lunchtime.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on February 17, 2010, 10:20:45 AM
Grateful for the good in my life.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on February 18, 2010, 06:00:49 AM
Grateful for the quiet joys of watching the Olympics with my family.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on February 18, 2010, 08:57:08 PM
Grateful for a very full day of training amongst good people.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on February 19, 2010, 04:23:14 PM
Grateful to be considering many opportunities for the future.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on February 20, 2010, 06:43:44 PM
Grateful to be accomplishing long-time goals.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on February 21, 2010, 07:11:26 PM
Grateful to almost be home.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on February 22, 2010, 11:45:40 AM
Grateful for a small hike on a nice SoCal morning.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on February 23, 2010, 12:02:35 PM
Grateful for when time moves quickly, and when I know that quickness comes from my enyoing my family/work/training/life!
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on February 23, 2010, 01:26:30 PM
Grateful for a highly motivating mission!
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on February 24, 2010, 10:28:57 AM
Grateful for the times when people can share special talents.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on February 25, 2010, 01:12:36 PM
As a high school teacher, I'm grateful  to be living the ideas I teach to my students.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on February 26, 2010, 04:48:51 AM

Greatful to have challenges in my Life , , ,
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on February 26, 2010, 01:56:28 PM
Grateful for time reserved for thought.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on February 27, 2010, 08:11:51 PM
Grateful for meaningful relationships in my life.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on February 28, 2010, 09:26:37 AM
Grateful for information with which I can make major decisions.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Glewis007 on February 28, 2010, 06:03:55 PM
 :-D
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on March 01, 2010, 10:27:34 AM
Grateful to have people willing to help me.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on March 02, 2010, 09:24:28 AM
Yesterday I just felt a little "off". Nothing specific, and not all that bad. I'm grateful to feel a bit more on track today.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on March 03, 2010, 10:20:20 AM
Grateful for the prospect of completing a step of a major project.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on March 04, 2010, 07:06:16 AM
Grateful for those rare times when I feel 100% ahead of my work.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on March 05, 2010, 07:06:24 AM
Grateful to come into the end of the week feeling very positive.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on March 06, 2010, 10:54:28 AM
Grateful for a slow morning.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on March 07, 2010, 11:01:03 AM
Grateful for levity.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on March 10, 2010, 09:20:28 AM
Grateful for a sense of freedom to explore some new possibilities.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on March 11, 2010, 01:55:20 PM
Okay, my kids both have Pneumonia, and I have ANOTHER upper respiratory infection. My son has been in preschool for six months and they told us this would happen. Anyway, I am grateful that my kids started their antibiotics, for our family health insurance, and the belief that we can all be more than well by the time of the Tribal Gathering.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on March 12, 2010, 08:14:52 AM
Grateful for a new day.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Kaju Dog on March 12, 2010, 08:24:28 PM
Gratful for things comming together and being in position to set the pace.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on March 13, 2010, 05:51:39 PM
Grateful for a nice night out with my wife last night.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on March 14, 2010, 03:55:51 PM
Grateful to have another day down in the process to achieving a long-term goal.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on March 15, 2010, 08:59:00 AM
Had a Monday morning staff meeting at the southern California public high school at which I work. I feel like it's the same meeting I've been going to for years: Doom and gloom, the nation is falling apart, no moral fiber, angry teachers, angry union members, test scores, intervention models!

I'm grateful to get back to my classroom, and teach my students. While some of their GPA's are low, I assure you that this bunch will be just fine when they're my age.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on March 16, 2010, 08:06:48 AM
Grateful to have sorted out some confusion.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on March 17, 2010, 07:32:54 AM
Grateful because I am, indeed, feeling lucky today.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on March 18, 2010, 07:53:20 AM
Grateful to have gotten over the initial soreness that comes with a new workout plan.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on March 19, 2010, 07:38:34 AM
Grateful to have received a nice message from an advisor.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on March 19, 2010, 08:27:51 AM
Grateful to have my wife join me for part of yesterday's 6 miles with 40 pounds session.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on March 20, 2010, 10:15:06 AM
Grateful that for the last few weeks, I have not struggled to come up with something for which I am grateful on this thread!
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on March 21, 2010, 11:13:01 AM
Grateful to have seen my seven month old's first crawl this morning!
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on March 22, 2010, 08:41:44 AM
Grateful for my friends.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on March 23, 2010, 07:38:29 AM
Grateful to be able to help a very dear freind with an exciting project.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on March 24, 2010, 08:37:45 AM
Grateful to remain excitied about the future.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on March 25, 2010, 07:41:14 AM
Grateful to have been put into a good group for a small project.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on March 26, 2010, 07:36:10 AM
Grateful for the excitement that comes with possabilities.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on March 27, 2010, 10:17:29 AM
Grateful for technology that makes life more fun.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on March 28, 2010, 04:11:34 PM
Grateful for a fine weekend with a fine group here in Toronto. The Adventure continues!
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on March 29, 2010, 09:02:51 AM
Grateful that some relationships can be repaired, and some cannot.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on March 30, 2010, 11:48:57 AM
Grateful to like what I do.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on March 31, 2010, 06:55:42 AM
Grateful for a unique situation last night with family.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on April 01, 2010, 02:59:54 PM
Grateful to get to know some of my co-workers better than last week.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on April 02, 2010, 07:51:17 AM
Grateful to have made it through yesterday without being pranked, at least none that I know of!
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on April 05, 2010, 08:48:26 AM
Grateful for some time off.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on April 06, 2010, 10:30:20 AM
Grateful for to have had some unnecessary pressure taken off of me recently.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on April 08, 2010, 10:36:00 AM
Grateful for some really high-end coffee waiting for me in my kitchen.  :-D
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on April 09, 2010, 06:08:28 AM
Grateful my son is coming home today from a 5 day school trip.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on April 10, 2010, 06:54:34 PM
I am grateful to be building high quality brain trusts in many areas of my life.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on April 11, 2010, 09:22:23 AM
Grateful to get bak to work tomorrow.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on April 11, 2010, 04:23:48 PM
Grateful for lots of learning in training.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on April 12, 2010, 08:50:53 AM
Grateful to be able to speak my mind in my profession, and have colleagues respond in a positive way.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Stickgrappler on April 12, 2010, 11:30:36 AM
Grateful for work easing a bit so i'm not "On" 110% of the time and can catch up on some forums, starting with this thread
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on April 13, 2010, 08:41:00 AM
Grateful to have caught up on rest from a poor night of sleep.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on April 13, 2010, 09:38:13 AM
What a coincidence me too.  Good thing too, today I look to train very hard.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on April 14, 2010, 08:45:28 AM
Quote
What a coincidence me too.  Good thing too, today I look to train very hard.

Double coincidence. Last night I took four hours of class at a little martial arts school by the marina, and then went home and did 90 minutes of yoga. Got to bed late, but I feel great!

I guess I'm grateful to feel good this morning after staying up way too late working out.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Stickgrappler on April 14, 2010, 09:47:52 AM
Grateful for my oldest daughter having passed the entrance exam some months ago to one of the top 40 high schools in the US as ranked by US News & World Report.

Grateful that today she has a chance to interview at that school.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on April 15, 2010, 08:00:57 AM
Quote
Grateful for my oldest daughter having passed the entrance exam some months ago to one of the top 40 high schools in the US as ranked by US News & World Report.

Grateful that today she has a chance to interview at that school.

Good luck to your daughter, Stickgrappler. Let us all know when she is accepted.

Grateful for the ability to stir up thought in young people.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on April 16, 2010, 08:12:05 AM
Grateful to be in a graduate program with two amazing people who are in my smaller regional study group. Both of these amazing people are defending their doctoral dissertations today, but I can only attend one of the two defenses in the afternoon.

I sent just sent the following messages to these folks, and I did "borrow" some DBMA lingo for one of the messages. The first is for the defense I cannot attend:

Quote
I don't know if this will find you after you are informally "Doctor" today, but even if it does, I still would like to express my best wishes for what I know will be a successful defense this morning. I am so pleased to have been in our learning group with you, and to have you as a partner in academia, and as a mentor.
 
It's always nice to have someone who has gone through it before you, and done it well, and I mean life. When I write something like that, I don't mean to be insulting. By biological reality, you are older than I am (I'm not calling you "old" however). You've been there; you have full-grown kids, and you and your wife and now reaping all of the benefits of having worked really hard for the past few decades. I hope I'm conveying this correctly; I can sense you are a good person, a good husband, and a good father, and I have always enjoyed talking with you about the challenge of balancing all of what life has to offer. You are very much a mentor to me in that way, in a culture that has sadly abandoned mentorhood.
 
So, I truly get to mean it when I write the following: I'm very pleased to know you.
 
Again, I don't like the word "defense" for what you are going to do today. You are sharing your research with the academic community, nothing more. You will do amazingly well, and I wish I could be there.


The second is for the one I will attend, and this individual is a bit more nervous than the first, even though she is more than ready:

Quote
I know I'm going to see you there, but I just wanted to start your day off with some good thoughts.
 
I'm very grateful to have you in my life as a fellow scholar, and more importantly as a friend. Your goodness as a person is apparent the moment anyone comes into contact with you. You deserve to be finished, and to get to attend the last meetings of our cohort as "Doctor", even if that's an informal title until the summer.
 
I wrote the same thing I'm about to write to (Recipient 1): I don't like the word "defense" for what you are doing later, because there is nothing offensive about the people you are speaking with today. You are sharing your research with the academic community, of which you are getting ready to become a leader in your particular area of scholarship, nothing more. You are doing it in front of a number of people who care about you, and want you to succeed. Just try to enjoy it. Like all things in life that take a lot of build up, it will be over before you know it. Stay present, and enjoy this day.
 
I'll see you later,
 
Bryan
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on April 16, 2010, 12:48:59 PM
Grateful for good family time.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Stickgrappler on April 16, 2010, 01:36:00 PM
woof Guide Dog,

thank you and will do.

good luck to your 2 group mates!

--------------

flew solo past 2 days at work, grateful i made it through. cannot wait for coworker to be back monday, so i don't have to be "on" all the time.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on April 17, 2010, 08:01:33 AM
Grateful to spend the day with my little boy.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on April 18, 2010, 08:26:14 AM
Grateful to have passed a major hurdle.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on April 18, 2010, 10:41:57 PM
Greatful for a lot of family time this past week.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on April 19, 2010, 07:54:53 AM
Grateful for a slow morning so far.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on April 19, 2010, 04:21:09 PM
Grateful for the sun that shone on me today as I swung my sledgehammer at the big tire.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Stickgrappler on April 19, 2010, 09:01:18 PM
Truly ecstatically grateful that i found something i thought lost forever... in a moment of inspiration, i checked a jacket i didn't wear in ages and sure enough it was there!

Grateful for the feeling that finding something lost, like finding money, gives me also.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on April 20, 2010, 07:36:04 AM
Grateful to stay excited about possibilities.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on April 21, 2010, 08:17:35 AM
At the high school at which I teach, state testing is upon us. While I am not grateful for having the sum total of everything that goes on during the academic year reduced to a three digit number that is the end-all, be-all measure of the school's worth as far as the state is concerned, I am grateful for a few days of proctoring, which is really about creating an environment in which the kids feel safe, and can do their best.

I have no problem with keeping educators accountable, or having the students demonstrate what they know, but, just as an example, a major trend in professional development for educators is differentiation, or the ability of teachers to adapt the educational experience to the different needs of each student. So, I need to personally adapt the educational experience for each student in a system that judges schools solely on an instrument that assumes students are all the same? My students that have only been in the country for a few years, and my special education students are expected to perform as well on the exam as say the future valedictorian, or the school will be put into program improvement? Something is wrong. I'm also grateful to be able to speak, or write about the absurdities in public education without getting upset, or feeling a spike in my blood pressure, like when I started teaching.

I'm also grateful work in a really nice school, and to really enjoy my interaction with students, regardless of test scores (even though our scores are through the roof).
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Stickgrappler on April 22, 2010, 07:30:00 AM
good luck Guide Dog!

---------------------

grateful our oldest daughter has the potential to be smarter than me

grateful our 2nd daughter is blossoming into a young woman faster and faster with each passing day

grateful our son, only in 1st grade, is able to spell at 2nd grade to almost 3rd grade level.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on April 22, 2010, 08:09:25 AM
Quote
good luck Guide Dog!

Thank you, SG. Enjoy and appreciate those kiddos of yours (sounds like you already do).

Grateful for a nice family dinner last night.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on April 23, 2010, 02:22:19 PM
Grateful that the Tribal Gathering is tomorrow, not weeks away, or a few days away. I don't have a "get it over with" mentality; I have a "I want to be in it and have it right in front of me" mentality.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on April 24, 2010, 08:55:11 AM
I am grateful for the birth of my little boy, which happened exactly three years ago, today. Happy birthday, munchkin.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on April 25, 2010, 06:54:40 PM
Grateful for a day of great fighting amongst warriors, brothers, and sisters.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on April 26, 2010, 07:26:15 AM
Grateful to be back at work after a weekend of fighting. My right hand is swollen, and I have bumps and bruises, but here I am, back in my classroom, ready to be "Mr. Stoops" to about 150 teenagers, rather than "Guide Dog".
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on April 27, 2010, 07:38:10 AM
Grateful to have resolved a financial error on the part of the other party that caused me to have a mini meltdown Sunday morning.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on April 28, 2010, 07:57:13 AM
Grateful that April was productive, but that it is coming to a close and we are moving into May.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on April 29, 2010, 10:11:34 AM
Today, I have a meeting scheduled that is essential to the process of moving my dissertation forward. I am grateful that the day is here. And no, I'm not defending, YET.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on April 29, 2010, 04:15:46 PM
Grateful for a fine workout sledgehammering and lifting in the sun.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on April 30, 2010, 07:52:42 AM
Grateful for a day which I'm sure will be productive, but also light and fun.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on April 30, 2010, 07:00:57 PM
Grateful for a nice 75 minute jits roll with a bit of Kali Tudo thrown in.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on May 03, 2010, 08:43:43 AM
Grateful to move forward in a key journey.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: rachelg on May 03, 2010, 07:06:19 PM
I'm very grateful I passed the last of my tests today and I have officially  signed the paperwork for my new job. 

It has been long few months but I really excited about my new job.   I feel like I did when I graduated college--  I still can't wrap my head around the fact that all the "studying"  is over.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on May 04, 2010, 07:50:36 AM
Grateful for my grandmother who, at 85, never hesistates to help me.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Growling Dog on May 05, 2010, 12:11:53 AM
grateful for some good advice, clears the mind and keeps you out of trouble
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on May 05, 2010, 12:03:06 PM
Grateful to be finishing a stressful work commitment.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on May 05, 2010, 09:33:38 PM
Grateful for good times with my children.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Stickgrappler on May 06, 2010, 01:47:04 PM
grateful for the opportunities presented today by someone else's fat-fingers
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on May 06, 2010, 03:57:28 PM
Grateful to have put on a major production today at work, and to be done with the most difficult part of the whole thing.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on May 07, 2010, 06:50:56 AM
@SG:  Well I'm glad you had a good day of it yesterday, it scared the beejeezus out of me :-o  Fortunately I was, and am, 60% in cash.  An excrement storm cometh.

I am grateful I was 60% in cash yesterday.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Stickgrappler on May 07, 2010, 10:09:30 AM
@SG:  Well I'm glad you had a good day of it yesterday, it scared the beejeezus out of me :-o  Fortunately I was, and am, 60% in cash.  An excrement storm cometh.

I am grateful I was 60% in cash yesterday.


very short window of opportunity yesterday. truly scary right now. agreed, worst is still not over, loads of fear out there.


i am grateful that Guro is in 60% cash!
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on May 10, 2010, 09:07:22 AM
Grateful that last week is now "last week".
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Stickgrappler on May 10, 2010, 10:03:01 AM
woof Rachel:

I'm very grateful I passed the last of my tests today and I have officially  signed the paperwork for my new job. 

It has been long few months but I really excited about my new job.   I feel like I did when I graduated college--  I still can't wrap my head around the fact that all the "studying"  is over.

belated congrats!

grateful that Rachel's 'studying' is over and landing the new job!

Quote
Grateful for my oldest daughter having passed the entrance exam some months ago to one of the top 40 high schools in the US as ranked by US News & World Report.

Grateful that today she has a chance to interview at that school.

Good luck to your daughter, Stickgrappler. Let us all know when she is accepted.


woof GD et al,

ack! daughter is too shy... apparently the "interview" was looking at group dynamics and how she would participate in group, and not 1-on-1 with teacher asking her q's... her shyness could've been her downfall. she was not accepted.

grateful for the rejection from that HS in giving my daughter focus on what to work on!
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on May 11, 2010, 07:17:14 AM
Quote
woof GD et al,

ack! daughter is too shy... apparently the "interview" was looking at group dynamics and how she would participate in group, and not 1-on-1 with teacher asking her q's... her shyness could've been her downfall. she was not accepted.

grateful for the rejection from that HS in giving my daughter focus on what to work on!

SG,

Not to make lemonade out of lemons, but at least this way you're receiving that feedback at the high school level, and it will not hold your daughter back from her favorite college, or her dream job.

Grateful for some blank days in my planner.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Stickgrappler on May 11, 2010, 10:44:55 AM
Quote
woof GD et al,

ack! daughter is too shy... apparently the "interview" was looking at group dynamics and how she would participate in group, and not 1-on-1 with teacher asking her q's... her shyness could've been her downfall. she was not accepted.

grateful for the rejection from that HS in giving my daughter focus on what to work on!

SG,

Not to make lemonade out of lemons, but at least this way you're receiving that feedback at the high school level, and it will not hold your daughter back from her favorite college, or her dream job.

Grateful for some blank days in my planner.

GD,

exactly. working with her to get out of her shell.

thank you

~sg
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Kaju Dog on May 11, 2010, 01:27:31 PM
For my inversion table...   T-spine pinched nerve this morning while holding my son.  Luckily I was close to the bed and let him go safely. 

Heat, stretch, hang upside down and try to work it out...  still in lot of pain but I am alive so all is well. :x
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on May 12, 2010, 01:14:37 PM
Grateful to be able to start to see the end of a major project.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on May 13, 2010, 08:23:43 AM
Grateful for a good first presentation of a lesson that I will be repeating in all of my classes today. I teach 11th and 12th grade English, and we are closing out the school year with a unit on the Hero's Journey. Today in class, my students are listening to me speak about my experience with Dog Brothers, and how it fits into Campbell's 17 steps. I am presenting my sticks, my gear, and I have been able to fit 16 out of the 17 steps into my experience. The first presentation went well.

4 more to go!
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: rio on May 13, 2010, 10:27:26 AM
Grateful that California state hospital inspectors have given us a date for final inspection. I have been through this before. I've seen my current project with opening a outpatient clinic, ongoing since October 2009. Planning,construction, equipment move-in, fire marshalls, revisions, marketing, physician presentations. . . almost there. should be open first week of June.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on May 14, 2010, 07:36:05 AM
Grateful to be at the "90% looks fantastic, and the other 10% is quickly catching up" phase with a major project.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on May 15, 2010, 01:17:02 PM
Grateful for many little milestones that keep popping up.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on May 17, 2010, 09:38:12 AM
Grateful for Monday.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on May 19, 2010, 07:36:08 AM
Grateful for a decent sense of creativity.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: rachelg on May 19, 2010, 07:38:13 PM
Stickgrappler--

I'm sorry for the delayed response -- Thank you!


I'm sorry to hear about your daughter. I didn't get into the high school I wanted to either and I remember being very disappointed.  If she wants to make changes I might recommend community theater ( she could even start out helping back stage), debate, Odyssey of the Mind, or a team sport. Best of luck to you both.

I'm grateful for a good end to my old job and for a  few days off before I start my new job.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on May 20, 2010, 08:23:10 AM
Grateful for a positive conversation yesterday afternoon with an advisor.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on May 21, 2010, 02:17:06 AM
Grateful for some very intriguing training this evening , , ,
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on May 21, 2010, 07:35:10 AM
Grateful for a successful meeting with my dissertation committee last night.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on May 25, 2010, 09:23:48 AM
Grateful to be able to help some in need.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on May 26, 2010, 06:27:09 PM
Grateful to see the finish line in a few life areas.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on May 27, 2010, 11:13:01 AM
Grateful for the majority of the academic year so far.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on May 28, 2010, 11:10:19 PM
Grateful for two interesting days of training in the Piper System.  Grateful to be training gun this weekend with Southnark.

TAC!
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on May 29, 2010, 10:44:04 AM
Grateful for a few nice hours this morning with my wife and kids before a larger family event later in the day.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on May 29, 2010, 09:45:43 PM
Grateful for a fun day with Southnark and Ryan out at the Burro Canyon Range today, with more to come tomorrow.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: peregrine on May 31, 2010, 04:01:44 PM
Thank you to all those who serve and who have served doing their duty for God and country.
Respect to you. Thank you for your sacrifices and our precious freedom.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on June 03, 2010, 08:39:58 AM
Grateful that a member of my family is receiving some help.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on June 06, 2010, 01:55:52 PM
Grateful for a nice breakfast.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on June 07, 2010, 03:33:21 PM
Grateful for the approaching ending of the 2009-2010 school year.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on June 08, 2010, 04:09:01 PM
Grateful for my friends.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on June 09, 2010, 07:41:57 AM
Grateful for the last meeting of a group of people.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Stickgrappler on June 09, 2010, 01:17:18 PM
grateful for my wife - she is the glue which holds our family together
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on June 10, 2010, 08:07:36 AM
Grateful for my last day with some great students.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on June 11, 2010, 06:35:48 AM
Grateful for good endings.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Poidog on June 11, 2010, 11:30:08 AM
Grateful for the start of the World Cup.





And coffee.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Dog Howie on June 12, 2010, 09:22:26 PM
Grateful for an astonishing wife and soul-mate who is passionate about what I am passionate about even when she doesn't fully understand those passions.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on June 14, 2010, 11:52:31 AM
Grateful to be mapping out what looks like an amazing summer!
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on June 14, 2010, 08:40:08 PM
Grateful!!!
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on June 15, 2010, 10:56:32 AM
Grateful for time to accomplish some simple errands.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on June 16, 2010, 04:10:11 PM
Grateful to receive some help from family members.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on June 17, 2010, 10:30:02 AM
Grateful to be visiting with my mom.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on June 20, 2010, 06:39:10 PM
Grateful for a wonderful Father's Day!
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Stickgrappler on June 20, 2010, 08:36:36 PM
Grateful my wife understood my desire to learn from Guro Crafty directly given the opportunity.

Grateful for Guro Eddie Hunt/NYJJ for hosting this weekend's seminar.

Grateful to have met Ryan Gruhn (although at the time I introduced myself to him, I was really out of it after a long day and hungry and he was checking his emails).

Grateful to have trained material under Guro Crafty's watchful eye.

Grateful on the 2nd day of the seminar my partner was an advanced MAist.

Grateful one of my training partners was able to attend the seminar with me, so that we can work the material together better.

Grateful after a tough and tiring 2 days of training, coming home to my 3 children's homemade Father's Day cards.


~sg
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on June 21, 2010, 05:26:59 PM
Grateful for a memorable evening out amongst adults, not that I don't love my kids.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on June 23, 2010, 10:27:31 AM
Grateful for a gift I received.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Stickgrappler on June 23, 2010, 01:17:19 PM
Grateful for smoke and mirrors.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on June 23, 2010, 09:54:21 PM
Grateful for my wonderful daughter, who turned 8 yesterday.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Stickgrappler on June 24, 2010, 07:23:47 AM
Grateful for my wonderful daughter, who turned 8 yesterday.

Whoa! Congrats and a belated Happy Birthday!

Grateful for birthdays!
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on June 24, 2010, 11:02:49 AM
Grateful today to have taken a step forward on a journey which had been intimidating me.  After much anticipatory stress, it turned out to have been not much at all.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Dr Dog on June 24, 2010, 10:51:47 PM
" After much anticipatory stress, it turned out to have been not much at all." It's amazing how often that is the case, and how much energy that wastes on a daily basis, at least for me. Of course the flip side is that the things that really hit you like a MoFo tend to come out of the blue.

Today I am grateful to feel healthy and ready for action after a few niggling injuries recently.

Rick
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on June 25, 2010, 02:12:16 PM
Grateful for the ability to be silly every now and then.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on June 26, 2010, 01:38:23 PM
Grateful for having completed the first step on a project yesterday, and at no point thinking of it as "work".
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on June 26, 2010, 04:42:26 PM
Grateful for another fine day here in Tolmin, Slovenia, for Cro Dog coming down from Germany and assisting today, for the peace of mind that comes from knowing my wife has the home front covered, and that I will be going home on Monday.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on June 27, 2010, 01:31:48 PM
Grateful to be cleaning out a section of my home.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on June 28, 2010, 08:48:35 AM
Grateful for what has been a great June.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Stickgrappler on June 28, 2010, 01:25:49 PM
Grateful for dead cat bounces.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Stickgrappler on June 29, 2010, 02:14:58 PM
Grateful to have set a date/plans for this weekend -- it will be the first weekend of this year I will have a chance to train with my 2 training partners in the park.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Stickgrappler on June 30, 2010, 02:24:20 PM
Grateful to be able to contribute in my own way.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Dog Howie on June 30, 2010, 04:44:01 PM
Grateful to be able to carve out special times for each of my kids who have been part of great family stress recently. I've been privileged to demonstrate to them how to face hard times head on while I minimize their risk so it is appropriate for their age and personality.  Grateful that emulating some of the attributes of a Warrior to my chilldren also makes me feel fulfilled as a husband and father.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on June 30, 2010, 06:19:12 PM
Amen.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on July 01, 2010, 09:30:22 AM
Grateful for small progress in different life areas.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Stickgrappler on July 01, 2010, 02:48:46 PM
Grateful to be able to spend time with my children watching movies:

The original Karate Kid a few nights ago. A timeless classic.

Night before last, we watched the 1977 "The Hobbit". Last night, we started "Fellowship of the Ring", the Peter Jackson one and not the Ralph Bakshi version.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Mick C. on July 02, 2010, 09:03:59 AM
Grateful to be a new forum member.  Hello, everyone.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Dog Howie on July 02, 2010, 04:47:01 PM
Grateful for new forum members.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Stickgrappler on July 03, 2010, 08:07:12 PM
Woof Mick C.:

Welcome to the DB Forum!

-------------

Grateful for Johnny Hartman's music... he would've been 83 today.

Grateful to spend most of my day with my father.

Grateful at the excitement tonight's UFC Heavyweight Unification bout will present.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Mick C. on July 03, 2010, 11:02:15 PM
Woof Mick C.:

Welcome to the DB Forum!

-------------

Grateful for Johnny Hartman's music... he would've been 83 today.

Grateful to spend most of my day with my father.

Grateful at the excitement tonight's UFC Heavyweight Unification bout will present.

Thanks, Stickgrappler!

We've exchanged emails in the past (i've posted on another forum as "the stewed owl") and sent you some photocopies of articles on JHR and Bando, and always enjoyed all the archives on your website.

Grateful to hear from you again, as well.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Stickgrappler on July 04, 2010, 11:49:13 AM
Thanks, Stickgrappler!

We've exchanged emails in the past (i've posted on another forum as "the stewed owl") and sent you some photocopies of articles on JHR and Bando, and always enjoyed all the archives on your website.

Grateful to hear from you again, as well.

This will sound lame... but I saw "Mick C." and my kneejerk reaction was, "I wonder how 'TheStewedOwl' is doing... dayum lost contact with him... I wonder if "Mick C." is him"? Nah, what are the odds?!?!?!"

Are you still on the UG? I sometimes check there but I've less time at work to surf around all the forums I used to visit regularly, mainly lurk here and hang at Ausgepicht's forum (http://www.spladdle.com/forum). If you have time, check Spladdle out.

And many moons ago when you sent me that BB JHR article, little did we know thatBB would make their 1st issue through their December 2004 issues available free via Google Books LOL

Very truly yours,

~sg


------------

Grateful for hooking up with old friends whom I've lost contact with!
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Sheep Dog on July 04, 2010, 04:32:22 PM
Gratitude to this country which has truly given me so much.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on July 05, 2010, 12:06:45 AM
Grateful for a nice camping trip, followed up by a great 4th spent with family.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on July 05, 2010, 08:20:50 AM
Grateful for a family game of lacrosse.

Grateful to be an American.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on July 06, 2010, 05:07:02 PM
Grateful for an excellent 2nd to last day of class for a degree which I am currently pursuing.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Stickgrappler on July 07, 2010, 05:26:30 PM
Grateful my wife and 3 kids are on their way home from a few days vacation. I miss them dearly.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on July 07, 2010, 08:29:28 PM
Grateful for an amazing last day of coursework in my doctoral studies, I expect to defend my dissertation in the fall.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on July 10, 2010, 08:26:36 AM
Grateful for a wonderful night with my family last night.

Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on July 10, 2010, 05:42:31 PM
Grateful for a short, family vacation.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on July 12, 2010, 09:39:24 AM
Grateful for deadlines.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on July 14, 2010, 12:33:31 PM
Grateful for an exciting goal which may become a reality.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on July 15, 2010, 07:23:40 AM
Grateful for the conclusion of a particular adventure.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on July 16, 2010, 12:30:57 AM
Grateful to retain the ability to be really excited by life.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Stickgrappler on July 16, 2010, 10:13:40 PM
Grateful my dad's surgery went ok.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on July 18, 2010, 09:06:31 PM
Grateful for the accomplishment of a major martial arts goal today.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on July 21, 2010, 06:09:28 PM
Grateful to have found a reliable source of information.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on July 22, 2010, 04:53:17 PM
Grateful that an apparent impending conflict has been resolved.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on July 25, 2010, 10:40:29 AM
Grateful for friendships in which weeks, or months can pass but upon getting together, or talking on the phone, it feels as though no time has gone by.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on July 26, 2010, 07:42:08 PM
Grateful to feel the need to keep plugging away in some life areas.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on July 28, 2010, 03:20:32 PM
Grateful for the manifestation of possibility.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on July 31, 2010, 10:40:48 AM
Grateful for Saturday mornings that start slow.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on August 01, 2010, 11:54:55 AM
Grateful for family members who are willing to babysit.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Stickgrappler on August 02, 2010, 09:27:05 AM
Grateful for week-long family vacation.

Grateful for my 5th Uncle's hospitality and generosity.

Grateful to be able to attend my cousin's wedding.

Grateful my family had a blast.

Grateful for a safe trip there and back.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on August 02, 2010, 03:17:12 PM
Grateful to have information I am waiting to receive, about which I'm excited.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on August 03, 2010, 09:43:49 AM
Grateful to be able to reach a semi-neutral state regarding certain matters.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Stickgrappler on August 03, 2010, 01:34:54 PM
Grateful for being able to enjoy a good movie (The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo).
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on August 05, 2010, 08:27:35 AM
Grateful for resolve towards a particular issue, however minor.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Stickgrappler on August 05, 2010, 01:32:10 PM
Flew solo today. Grateful I made it through the day.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on August 06, 2010, 08:42:23 AM
Grateful to have completed some minor home improvements yesterday. My wife wanted a few simple things done here and there, and now that they are finished, it really does look better in here!
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Stickgrappler on August 06, 2010, 01:50:10 PM
Flew solo again today. Grateful I made it through the day.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Dog Howie on August 07, 2010, 04:22:39 AM
Grateful for the accountability I have to one who has properly executed their role thus allowing me to be corrected.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on August 07, 2010, 06:31:53 PM
Grateful to attend a great event.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on August 08, 2010, 10:05:38 PM
Grateful to know some talented, nice people.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Stickgrappler on August 09, 2010, 10:16:32 AM
Grateful for my friend Ausgepicht's UFC 117 gif's posting.

Grateful for my friend Mick C.'s posting of Oldschool H2H articles.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on August 09, 2010, 11:53:49 PM
Grateful for a very full day.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on August 11, 2010, 12:11:31 AM
Grateful for another full day.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on August 12, 2010, 10:29:27 AM
Grateful that a warrior received some good news regarding a family member.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on August 13, 2010, 03:28:27 PM
Grateful for a current deadline.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on August 14, 2010, 01:10:17 PM
Grateful for a freshly painted front door.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on August 14, 2010, 06:26:40 PM
Grateful for some wonderful time with my son.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Stickgrappler on August 16, 2010, 09:38:18 AM
Grateful for a friend's wife's good news!

Grateful to spend time with my children watching Diary of a Wimpy Kid and we enjoyed it.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: lonelydog on August 16, 2010, 01:06:57 PM
Grateful for a fine day in the glow of the aftermath of the DB Gathering and my seminar.

Crafty Dog
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on August 18, 2010, 10:01:43 AM
Grateful for a freeing up of some time.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on August 19, 2010, 05:16:05 AM
Grateful for a wonderful trip:  my son travelling with me to spend some time with his grandmother and on to Switzerland, for the people I trained, the two days of the Gathering, my seminar, and to be home united with my family.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on August 20, 2010, 12:20:45 PM
Grateful for something that looks like it might just work out!
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on August 21, 2010, 12:04:31 PM
Grateful for another forward step.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on August 22, 2010, 07:03:41 AM
Grateful for my new Indian Club DVDs and my workout yesterday based around the first one.  Grateful for a fine time at the movies with my son (The Expendables :-) ) Grateful for my first full night's sleep since coming back across the 9 times zones from Switzerland.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Gong Fu Dog on August 22, 2010, 07:14:36 AM
Grateful for another beautiful day with my 6 week old son  :-)


- Thomas
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on August 24, 2010, 05:39:54 AM
The greatest adventure of all  GF!
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Gong Fu Dog on August 24, 2010, 06:47:52 AM
The greatest adventure of all  GF!

Yes, definitely...no doubt about that  :-)

Grateful for being a proud father!

Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Kaju Dog on August 24, 2010, 08:03:20 AM
Gratful for the time I have to prepare for the US Gathering and the motivation received from reading about this years Euro Gathering Adventures.  8-)
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on August 24, 2010, 09:50:42 AM
Grateful for a few more days before everything starts again.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Matt Tucker on August 24, 2010, 03:11:34 PM
Grateful to see the light at the end of a very long tunnel....
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on August 25, 2010, 09:48:13 AM
Grateful for a summer that all in all was pretty great.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Stickgrappler on August 25, 2010, 01:29:42 PM
Grateful my coworker is back from 3 days vacation... don't have to fly solo!

Grateful to be able to enjoy Angelina Jolie's Salt with my wife and 3 kids.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Gong Fu Dog on August 26, 2010, 06:54:00 AM
Grateful for my Mother...

- Thomas
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on August 26, 2010, 10:07:23 AM
Grateful to be at the font door of a new academic year.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: rachelg on August 26, 2010, 03:18:45 PM
Grateful for the ability to change my mind about everything except my husband and my dog. 
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on August 27, 2010, 05:37:24 PM
Grateful for a great staff orientation day at the high school at which I teach.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Gong Fu Dog on August 28, 2010, 02:41:45 PM
Grateful for meeting an old friend of mine...we didn´t see each other for at least a year.

-Thomas
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on August 29, 2010, 03:13:29 PM
Grateful to be excited about what I do for a living.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Stickgrappler on August 30, 2010, 09:42:37 AM
Grateful over the weekend spent time with my kids laughing it up over the classics Home Alone 1 and 2.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on August 30, 2010, 12:40:41 PM
Grateful for the day.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Stickgrappler on August 30, 2010, 01:20:43 PM
Grateful for the possibilities tomorrow holds.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Gong Fu Dog on August 31, 2010, 11:33:08 AM
Grateful that a long working day is over...so I can have some time with my family  :-)
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on August 31, 2010, 12:03:17 PM
Grateful to work with some nice people.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Stickgrappler on August 31, 2010, 01:19:52 PM
Although not what I envisioned yesterday, grateful for the way today played out.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on August 31, 2010, 10:03:09 PM
Grateful for an important step today in replacing my two missing teeth.  In two weeks I should have a full set of teeth in my head  8-)
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on September 01, 2010, 07:51:25 AM
Grateful to have cleaned out a small storage area in my home and discovered some (very) old writing and photos.
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Gong Fu Dog on September 01, 2010, 02:23:56 PM
Grateful for a nice dinner  :-)
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Scurvy Dog on September 01, 2010, 05:51:43 PM
Grateful to be alive today and that me and my family are now home safe in our house!

Living in Costa Rica has been an adventure to be sure both good and bad! Today I had an Uzi pointed at me and my family. Granted, it was in the hands of the good guys but in between them and me, my wife and 16 month old boy were three known violent criminals. If just one of them had made a move... Talk about puckered up.

It's been awhile since I've had a gun pointed at me.  :|

So, to say that I am grateful is an understatement.

Be safe guys!

Tim
Title: Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on September 07, 2010, 12:47:35 PM
Whoa!  I just noticed your post Scurvy! We are very grateful you and yours are safe and sound and back here in America!!!

Turning now to the reason I came to this thread today, I am grateful for some inspiration DVDs which are reminding me of some things I used to know.

And a prayer for a friend who has made a big mistake , , ,

Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Gong Fu Dog on September 07, 2010, 03:11:39 PM
Grateful for a nice day of training... :-)
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Kaju Dog on September 07, 2010, 04:00:28 PM
Gratful for a conversation this morning that led me to understand that there is a 2 time Felon Bull Dog Gang member living only 2 blocks over.  Explains why my dog barks at 2am sometimes. 

Also gratful for phones, so that my kids can call thier freinds over to play instead of having to pass this dirtbags house.

 :|
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on September 08, 2010, 07:36:24 AM
Grateful to be able to (sometimes) facilitate group thought for a living.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: jcordova on September 08, 2010, 07:47:12 AM
I'm very grateful that my two daughters and wife are in good health and for the love they have towards me. 
Very grateful too that God gives me another day of living and the opportunity to see my family after work .   :-)
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Kaju Dog on September 08, 2010, 08:24:18 AM
I'm very grateful that my two daughters and wife are in good health and for the love they have towards me. 
Very grateful too that God gives me another day of living and the opportunity to see my family after work .   :-)

Gratful for Sifu Cordovas' second post *)
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on September 08, 2010, 09:21:08 PM
I pray for peace and wisdom in dealing with a matter of great emotional conflict and give gratitude for a wonderful wife.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Stickgrappler on September 09, 2010, 06:10:45 AM
Grateful over the weekend had a chance to start a home improvement project.

Grateful that I am reminded by a good friend of the Big Picture.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on September 09, 2010, 01:38:35 PM
Grateful for the feeling that I am getting "back in the swing of things" in some life areas.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on September 10, 2010, 12:27:19 PM
Grateful for the freedom that can come after a disappointment.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Stickgrappler on September 10, 2010, 01:25:42 PM
Grateful this short work week did not drag and feel long.

Grateful I was able to complete 3 out of the mandatory 4 Continuing Education tests today for Compliance. Looking to Monday to take the last one.

Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Kaju Dog on September 10, 2010, 05:33:56 PM
Gratful for the lines of communication that help us all to stay intouch. 

 8-)
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on September 10, 2010, 10:09:27 PM
Grateful for a wonderful mini-hike in a temperate rain forest today.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: DougMacG on September 11, 2010, 09:26:50 AM
Grateful for a glorious summer, in a place that has extremely distinct seasons.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on September 12, 2010, 09:47:14 AM
Grateful for something approaching a plan.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on September 12, 2010, 08:10:18 PM
Grateful for a wonderful seminar this weekend in Seattle and time with my friends Rob, Tracy, and the two children Mitchell and Duncan.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Dog Howie on September 13, 2010, 09:08:13 AM
Grateful for friends, coach, docs and body that allowed enough recovery from recent trauma to fight Sunday. Originally i believed i would not be able to fight... maybe ever.  This is cool gentlemen. I'm grateful.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on September 13, 2010, 11:42:26 AM
Quote
Grateful for friends, coach, docs and body that allowed enough recovery from recent trauma to fight Sunday. Originally i believed i would not be able to fight... maybe ever.  This is cool gentlemen. I'm grateful.

I'm grateful that Howie has strong reasons to be grateful.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on September 13, 2010, 02:59:46 PM
Grateful to be home!
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Gong Fu Dog on September 14, 2010, 01:52:19 PM
Grateful for achieving another goal in my life  :-)
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on September 14, 2010, 03:40:03 PM
Grateful to have two teeth that have been missing for many years replaced today!
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on September 17, 2010, 01:32:11 PM
Grateful to have that feeling that the tribe is descending on SoCal as a great day of fighting and growth approaches.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on September 17, 2010, 02:52:56 PM
Amen!
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on September 18, 2010, 09:39:28 AM
Grateful to soon be in the company of friends and like-minded warriors.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: danicasdad on September 21, 2010, 10:36:48 PM
today im grateful for the experience of the gathering and the feeling of truly being present and in the moment.
grateful that my wife's health has been okayed and that my greatest source of healing and inspiration will continue to be with me and our kids.
grateful for good friends that will push you when you think you cant do it. :-)
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on September 24, 2010, 06:21:54 PM
Grateful for three wonderful days working with folks who make a difference.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Dog Howie on September 29, 2010, 07:26:37 PM
Grateful for the cooling that signals autumn in the north-east and the never-ending cycle of seasons. 
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on October 01, 2010, 07:14:45 AM
Grateful that an opportunity that seemed lost may have just been stalled.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Scurvy Dog on October 01, 2010, 02:28:24 PM
Grateful that recent decisions that felt wrong are starting to feel right. Looking forward to what new adventures life will bring me and my family.  :-D
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on October 05, 2010, 07:47:57 AM
Grateful for a renewal of sorts.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on October 06, 2010, 07:53:24 AM
Grateful for forward movement.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: michael on October 07, 2010, 07:05:09 AM
I'm grateful that my son returned home yesterday safely from his tour of duty with the USAF in Afghanistan. He was shot once in the body armor and okay, and killed one Taliban on his fourth day in-country when Bagram Air Base had the major attack a few months back. Grateful to God for His protection of my son.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on October 07, 2010, 07:47:42 AM
Michael,

I'm grateful for your son's safe return.

Grateful for getting through the vast majority of a large pile of work yesterday, when I had mentally been dreading the process for days before.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: michael on October 07, 2010, 08:19:45 PM
Guide Dog, thank you sir, I appreciate it!
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on October 10, 2010, 12:30:50 PM
Grateful to have come to a decision today about something.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on October 12, 2010, 08:08:33 AM
Grateful for a silly dress-up week at work; levity is a good thing.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Dog Howie on October 12, 2010, 12:09:14 PM
Michael: The death of my 24 year old eldest son this summer (non military death) has allowed me to be that much more grateful for my fellow sojourner fathers who know the joy of welcoming their sons home.  I am glad to join you in grateful appreciation of his safe return.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on October 13, 2010, 09:14:45 AM
Grateful for people who are flexible with their schedules.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on October 14, 2010, 07:42:35 AM
Grateful for a new plan regarding a certain path.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: The Tao on October 16, 2010, 06:58:33 PM
I'm grateful for the opportunity to train with the people that I get to train with.

I'm grateful that I have been given a second chance at life (at least the current one).

Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: michael on October 17, 2010, 08:08:24 AM
Michael: The death of my 24 year old eldest son this summer (non military death) has allowed me to be that much more grateful for my fellow sojourner fathers who know the joy of welcoming their sons home.  I am glad to join you in grateful appreciation of his safe return.

Thank you brother, and I am so sorry for your loss. I cannot even imagine.

Today I am thankful that my son, his wife, and my Granddaughter have been able to spend a couple of weeks with us. It has been precious time, especially with the little one around.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on October 19, 2010, 10:47:51 AM
Grateful to have had dinner last night with a group of people I am no longer able to see on a regular basis.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on October 20, 2010, 07:50:25 AM
Grateful to have jumped into something I probably should have not waited to start.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on October 20, 2010, 09:16:33 AM
Grateful to be home with my family!!!
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on October 22, 2010, 08:56:23 AM
Grateful for stillness.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: The Tao on October 23, 2010, 09:08:39 AM
I'm grateful for those that are a part of my life, including those of you that are reading this.
I'm grateful for the teachers that I have had and will have.
I'm grateful that my life did not turn out like those of my associates from my distant past.
I'm not hunting cartel in Mexico yet, but my life isn't what it could have been.
I owe each of you so much that I will never be able to repay it, so it is my job to repay as much of it as I can.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on October 23, 2010, 10:24:02 AM
Pay it forward!
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: The Tao on October 23, 2010, 01:56:36 PM
Pay it forward!

With every action Crafty Dog, with every action Sir. I will.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on October 24, 2010, 06:32:26 PM
Grateful for a good family day.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: The Tao on October 24, 2010, 11:34:55 PM
I'm grateful that we live in the Land of the Free.
I'm grateful for those that protect this land.
I'm grateful for our mothers and those that we protect.
I'm grateful that there is still something worth protecting.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: michael on October 25, 2010, 07:38:52 AM
Grateful for an extended weekend with the Mrs., spending time in Virginia visiting wineries, Monticello, and the Blue Ridge Parkway. Awesome state and colors.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on October 25, 2010, 10:01:52 AM
Grateful for time with which to think.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on October 26, 2010, 10:51:32 AM
Grateful for two possabilities.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on October 26, 2010, 06:12:20 PM
Profoundly grateful for a week on my own with our two children-- and grateful for Cindy's return tomorrow night.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on October 27, 2010, 08:00:52 AM
Grateful for having taken care of something I have been neglecting.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on October 28, 2010, 07:39:43 AM
Grateful for people dillagent about providing information when asked.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on October 29, 2010, 05:16:42 PM
Crateful for metaphorical war buddies. I write that only as an analogy; I have never served and have great respect for those who do and have.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on November 01, 2010, 07:23:04 AM
Grateful for an opportunity/dilemma.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: danicasdad on November 07, 2010, 10:37:01 AM
give thanks for healing and times of injury, to reflect and renew. :roll:
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: The Tao on November 07, 2010, 04:31:47 PM
I'm grateful for the people that I get to train with. I'm grateful for the mantra of "Higher consciousness through harder contact." I'm grateful that I have people in my life that are worthy of teaching.

I'm grateful for the possibilities that all of the above, in conjuction with dedication and training, will provide. My life is awesome. All of you are no small part of it. For this, I thank you.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: pau on November 08, 2010, 02:39:46 AM
well im Grateful my brother in law is out the hospital  :-D
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on November 09, 2010, 02:20:18 PM
Grateful to have completed a major step in a long process.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Stickgrappler on November 11, 2010, 06:36:51 AM
Woof Dog Randall, Kaju Dog, cordtheseeker and other soldiers/veterans,

*Bows deeply to all*


Happy Veteran's Day!

THANK YOU!

Very truly yours,

~sg
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: DougMacG on November 11, 2010, 09:21:03 PM
I am grateful for all who have served this country, in particular my Dad's service in France and Germany during WWII. I am also grateful that our side saw that particular conflict through to victory.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on November 15, 2010, 10:54:07 AM
Grateful for having come to something approximating a decision.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on November 17, 2010, 10:53:30 AM
Grateful to be able to doubt a recent decision about which I thought my mind was made up.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: danicasdad on November 17, 2010, 09:39:47 PM
grateful for the courageous teachers who have come into my life. you show me a strength, faith and character that im blessed to witness.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on November 21, 2010, 08:37:37 AM
Mostly grateful for technology this morning.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on November 22, 2010, 11:03:26 AM
Grateful to know some truly authentic people through this thing we call martial arts.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Dog Howie on November 22, 2010, 02:31:17 PM
Grateful to have been taught how to  walk through fire w open eyes and a clear head. And for those who's instruction helped me do just that.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on November 23, 2010, 09:32:33 AM
 I was in a bad mood all day yesterday for no particular reason; I'm grateful to be out of it.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Scurvy Dog on November 25, 2010, 06:51:08 AM
Grateful for all my great family and friends. Happy Thanksgiving all !!!
 :-D
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: G M on November 25, 2010, 07:44:12 AM
Grateful for those far from home, in harm's way to protect this nation.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on November 25, 2010, 09:23:08 AM
Grateful for another year of blessings in this life. Happy Thanksgiving.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on November 25, 2010, 11:59:16 PM
Grateful for so many things-- today in particular for my wonderful wife and children.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Kaju Dog on November 26, 2010, 11:56:55 AM
Gratful I dont work in retail or for any department store    :lol:
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on November 29, 2010, 02:26:20 PM
Grateful to have taken the next step in a long journey.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: jcordova on November 30, 2010, 06:02:22 AM
grateful for my family who is :-D in good health in these cold weather.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on November 30, 2010, 07:03:05 PM
Grateful for the past weeks in spent the presence of a like-minded individual.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Stickgrappler on December 01, 2010, 01:40:29 PM
Grateful for a good start to the month.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Mider1985 on December 01, 2010, 09:49:02 PM
Greatful for being alive today
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: rachelg on December 02, 2010, 06:52:36 PM
I'm grateful that a  stressful situation turned out much better than expected because of several helpful people and I grateful for new toys.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on December 03, 2010, 02:20:26 PM
Grateful to recognize connections.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Stickgrappler on December 03, 2010, 08:57:30 PM
Grateful to have the day off from work and attend my 2nd daughter's school play. She was great in it.

Belated gratefulness of being able to take advantage of Black Friday and purchase an HP Touchsmart tm2 convertible tablet/laptop.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on December 04, 2010, 09:59:37 AM
Grateful to start my day off listening to some great music with my son.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on December 05, 2010, 11:13:29 AM
Grateful to have been able to sleep in for just a bit this morning.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Dog Howie on December 06, 2010, 08:35:46 AM
Grateful for the discovery if a new part if the world I'm visiting for the first time.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on December 06, 2010, 10:01:21 AM
Grateful to have had somebody that was looking out for me.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Stickgrappler on December 06, 2010, 02:11:37 PM
Grateful my new HP convertible tablet/laptop showed up.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on December 07, 2010, 02:19:18 PM
Grateful for a MAJOR breakthrough in a longtime project.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on December 08, 2010, 03:23:00 PM
Grateful for the scheduling of key events to have come together.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on December 09, 2010, 01:29:01 PM
Grateful to get moving on something today.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Stickgrappler on December 09, 2010, 01:37:42 PM
Grateful for the Branch Holiday Party tonight.

Happy Holidays!
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: The Tao on December 09, 2010, 03:45:12 PM
I'm grateful that I can decide who I am going to be as an individual.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on December 10, 2010, 04:15:07 PM
Grateful for a positive ending to an opportunity to provide mentoring.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Dog Howie on December 11, 2010, 05:29:39 AM
Grateful for a day off from an exhausting schedule.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on December 11, 2010, 12:04:32 PM
Grateful for uninterrupted momentum.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on December 12, 2010, 11:53:57 AM
Author Robert Fulghum tells this story of one of his professors, a wise man whose name was Alexander Papaderos:

At the last session on the last morning of a two-week seminar on Greek culture, Dr. Papaderos turned and made the ritual gesture: "Are there any questions?"

Quiet quilted the room. These two weeks had generated enough questions for a lifetime, but for now, there was only silence.

"No questions?" Papaderos swept the room with his eyes.

So, I asked.

"Dr. Papaderos, what is the meaning of life?"

The usual laughter followed, and people stirred to go.

Papaderos held up his hand and stilled the room and looked at me for a long time, asking with his eyes if I was serious and seeing from my eyes that I was.

"I will answer your question."

Taking his wallet out of his hip pocket, he fished into a leather billfold and brought out a very small round mirror, about the size of a quarter.

And what he said went something like this:

"When I was a small child, during the war, we were very poor and we lived in a remote village. One day, on the road, I found the broken pieces of a mirror. A German motorcycle had been wrecked in that place.

"I tried to find all the pieces and put them together, but it was not possible, so I kept only the largest piece. This one. And by scratching it on a stone, I made it round. I began to play with it as a toy and became fascinated by the fact that I could reflect light into dark places where the sun would never shine--in deep holes and crevices and dark closets. It became a game for me to get light into the most inaccessible places I could find.

"I kept the little mirror, and as I went about my growing up, I would take it out in idle moments and continue the challenge of the game. As I became a man, I grew to understand that this was not just a child's game but a metaphor for what I might do with my life. I came to understand that I am not the light or the source of light. But light--truth, understanding, knowledge--is there, and it will only shine in many dark places if I reflect it.

"I am a fragment of a mirror whose whole design and shape I do not know. Nevertheless, with what I have I can reflect light into the dark places of this world--into the black places in the hearts of men--and change some things in some people. Perhaps others may see and do likewise. This is what I am about. This is the meaning of life."

And then he took his small mirror and, holding it carefully, caught the bright rays of daylight streaming through the window and reflected them onto my face and onto my hands folded on the desk.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: G M on December 12, 2010, 12:09:33 PM
Very nice.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on December 15, 2010, 08:16:22 AM
Grateful to be finishing a portion of a major project today.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on December 16, 2010, 08:19:34 PM
Grateful to be able to inspire some small measure of creativity in young people.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on December 17, 2010, 08:12:19 AM
Grateful for a break. I wasn't aware (until today) of how ready I am for it.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on December 21, 2010, 01:49:55 PM
Grateful to have put the wrapping up of a major undertaking exclusively back into my hands and the hands of a trusted advisor.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Stickgrappler on December 21, 2010, 08:22:07 PM
Grateful to be able to attend my 2nd daughter's Winter Concert, she is part of the school chorus.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: JDN on December 23, 2010, 10:03:53 AM
This Christmas I want to be thankful for those on this forum. BBG for teaching me about the so called "science" of global warming, CCP for his enlightenment about the Jewish struggle, GM for educating me about the evils of Islam and Sharia Law, Doug for his openness to dissent and economic reasonableness and all the others that I have learned from. Most of all my thanks to Rachel for keeping me centered.
Happy Holidays to all. May our great country grow and prosper in 2011 and be safe.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Stickgrappler on December 23, 2010, 10:51:39 AM
Grateful for 2 unexpected opportunites which presented itself.

Grateful to be able to be a part of this forum. Thank you everyone.

Happy Holidays!
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on December 23, 2010, 12:11:22 PM
I echo JDN's gratitudes for this forum and all who come to play.  It has taken a lot of doing to bring it to where it is, but thanks to all of us I confess to feeling rather proud of how far we have come and what we do.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on December 23, 2010, 08:24:14 PM
I too am grateful for the level of rich discourse on this forum.

Grateful to have finished the first draft of one of the most important documents I will ever write today.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: rachelg on December 24, 2010, 09:08:43 AM
I am also grateful for kind words, this forum and  a break.

Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on December 24, 2010, 10:16:00 PM
Rachel:

You are amongst the people for whose presence here I am quite grateful.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: DougMacG on December 25, 2010, 11:35:40 AM
I am grateful to again experience the change of seasons, the beautiful music of Christmas and the welcoming message of peace, love, gratefulness and optimism that comes with Christmas and the new year.  Joy to the world.  Let heaven and nature sing.
Title: Re: The Older Warrior
Post by: Kaju Dog on December 26, 2010, 03:47:12 PM
@ALL,

Inspired, Motivated, humbled and appreciative of The Older Warriors. 

A good leader must first be a good follower...  thankful for DB's leadership

TAC 8-)
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Stickgrappler on December 27, 2010, 01:31:09 PM
Grateful to be able to make it to work through 30" of snow and that it was worthwhile to show up today.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: rachelg on December 30, 2010, 03:32:07 PM
Marc-- Thank you for the generous compliment.   I am grateful for all the hard work you have done on this forum.

I am grateful for new contacts and being  able to see 20/20 in my contacts even though my prescription is -12/-14
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on January 03, 2011, 12:51:04 PM
Grateful to celebrate another milestone in a LONG process/project.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Stickgrappler on January 03, 2011, 01:16:26 PM
Grateful to a good start for the month/year.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on January 04, 2011, 04:26:55 PM
Grateful to have many good books to look forward to after completion of a current project that is frankly zapping my energy as far as all things intellectual.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on January 05, 2011, 08:04:37 AM
Grateful for the help of family members during what seems like a transitional phase.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Stickgrappler on January 05, 2011, 01:21:00 PM
Grateful my day turned around from an ugly morning.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: jcordova on January 05, 2011, 04:49:45 PM
Grateful that my youngest daughter's temperature from 103 came down to 97 and is doing better.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on January 05, 2011, 06:46:06 PM
103?!?  That's scary!  Glad all is well.

Grateful for a fine day of training with a good friend.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Stickgrappler on January 06, 2011, 09:47:16 PM
Grateful I was able to "teach a man how to fish" today. Now he is fed for life.




Grateful jcordova's daughter's fever broke!

An aside:  sometime 2000 or so, Guro Crafty came to NYC to teach a seminar at Raw Dog's (Nick Sacoulas') school... I registered and was all set to go, but you can guess how the story will go from here. The night before, my daughter had a 104 fever. We took her to the ER, she stayed for a few days. My training partner J., also signed up for the seminar, was coming from Staten Island via the ferry, I was to pick him up and we go together. I picked him up, dropped him off and went straight to the hospital. Urinary Tract Infection was the guilty culprit. One of the scariest experiences I ever had... my daughter, despite the 104 fever, seemed fine and playful!
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on January 06, 2011, 10:22:05 PM
I'm grateful that jcordova's daughter sounds like she's going to be okay.

(Sorry about that previous mispost jcordova and Stickgrappler. I misread to whom the recently ailing daughter belongs; I'm still grateful she's doing better.)
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on January 07, 2011, 07:55:02 PM
Grateful for a friend's progress on a major undertaking.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: jcordova on January 08, 2011, 10:38:42 AM
I'm grateful to have friends here in the forum who care about each other.  Thank you all, my daughter is doing well. :-D
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: danicasdad on January 09, 2011, 01:37:48 AM
grateful for anger and pain being channeled into something positive.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on January 09, 2011, 06:35:53 AM
At a bar mitzvah yesterday for a cousin, grateful to watch my daughter dance for the first time.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on January 09, 2011, 11:10:11 AM
Grateful for being in a metaphorical parking lot, in a metaphorical car, just a few steps away from a great ocean of possibility. I have a few things I still need to do: put on the break, verify I have all of my things, put on sunscreen, etc. What matters most is that the ocean is not all that far now.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on January 10, 2011, 08:23:04 PM
Grateful for finishing the first round of (rather extensive) rewrites on a very important document.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on January 11, 2011, 07:56:21 AM
Grateful to be able to define a slow pace for the first half of the day.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Stickgrappler on January 12, 2011, 10:11:19 AM
Grateful my IT finally replaced one of my monitors which had a huge black spot blocking out part of the screen.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: The Tao on January 12, 2011, 10:17:48 AM
Grateful for the Martial Arts. Guro Inosanto once asked why a man had killed himself (because at least he had his Art - it's on this forum somewhere).

I really don't know where my life would be without the Martial Arts. They are in short, a way to solve every problem that I face. Especially those from within.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on January 12, 2011, 12:37:21 PM
Grateful to pray for one of the members of our tribe who is engaged in a major health battle.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: The Tao on January 12, 2011, 12:40:01 PM
Grateful to pray for one of the members of our tribe who is engaged in a major health battle.

Indeed. I second that.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: The Tao on January 13, 2011, 08:48:41 AM
Is grateful for the run in with the two gang members that happened a week ago. It seems that I now have the opportunity to influence one of these young men's lives in a very positive way through the arts. I caught a fish.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Stickgrappler on January 13, 2011, 02:28:02 PM
Grateful I made it through the day... flew solo today, half the trading desk is out sick.

Ditto Guide Dog:  Grateful to pray for one of the members of our tribe who is engaged in a major health battle.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on January 14, 2011, 09:03:12 AM
"Grateful to pray for one of the members of our tribe who is engaged in a major health battle."

Amen.

ZG:  Feels good, doesn't it?
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: The Tao on January 14, 2011, 12:14:19 PM
"Grateful to pray for one of the members of our tribe who is engaged in a major health battle."

Amen.

ZG:  Feels good, doesn't it?

Still praying.

WOOF Guro, it does. He was a no show last night, but I'll go down and bang on his dooor tonight and see. It does feel good helping people.

Still praying.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on January 17, 2011, 05:49:53 PM
Grateful for a weekend full of renewal.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on January 18, 2011, 01:28:16 PM
Grateful for a renewed sense of wonder towards particular topics.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Stickgrappler on January 19, 2011, 08:14:51 AM
Grateful our 2 younger children are enjoying their Christmas presents (Battleship, Connect Four, Milles Bournes).

Grateful our 2nd daughter beat me a few times in a row in Connect Four (granted, I was playing my son Battleship at the same time)... but she has progressed from, borrowing a JKD term, a SDA, to I guess what would be called a PIA in Connect Four.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: The Tao on January 19, 2011, 12:07:21 PM
Grateful that I don't have to keep my head stuck in the sand forever.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on January 20, 2011, 10:02:47 AM
Grateful to be home with my family after a productive three day business trip.  Grateful that while on jury duty today that the Jury Assembly Room has internet connection! :-D
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on January 20, 2011, 10:20:10 AM
Grateful for good news that only makes me stumble because I have MORE options than I thought I did.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: jcordova on January 20, 2011, 04:53:54 PM
Grateful to be home back to my family from a week detail in Tucson  :-D... It really was so stressful :?
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on January 21, 2011, 07:44:13 AM
Grateful for being sixty percent done with the endeavours of yesterday and today.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: The Tao on January 21, 2011, 12:48:41 PM
Grateful to be home back to my family from a week detail in Tucson  :-D... It really was so stressful :?

Grateful you're safe.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Dog Howie on January 21, 2011, 04:46:34 PM
Also grateful to be praying for the tribe member with major health issue. And grateful that "prayer" is far more than "talking to air".
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on January 22, 2011, 12:54:41 PM
Grateful for the two nice young purples I rolled with last night.  Grateful for wonderful times with my children.  Grateful the boss let us rearrange the living room furniture so we have play room-- including playing with Conrad's "Kinect" game (It's like Wii, but much, much better).  Grateful for coming to a difficult decision about someone.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on January 23, 2011, 09:14:14 AM
Grateful for  nice start to the the morning.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: jcordova on January 23, 2011, 10:54:45 AM
Grateful to have enough patience of not going off at someone at work.  :x


Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on January 23, 2011, 06:43:29 PM
That's always a good thing :lol:

Grateful for taking my horse-crazy daughter to see Cavalia today.  Hard to describe, a blend of humans and horses doing ballet is as close as I can get to it-- one of the most beautiful things I've seen.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on January 24, 2011, 07:18:12 AM
Grateful for a light day that is getting started early.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Stickgrappler on January 24, 2011, 01:29:24 PM
Grateful making some headway this month.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: The Tao on January 25, 2011, 07:18:17 PM
Grateful to hit Zacatecas and have already solved one problem at work. Grateful for no unecessary problems. Praying for a brother who is going through it on the East Coast.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on January 26, 2011, 08:46:42 AM
Grateful for security, and the questions that come with possabilities.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Scurvy Dog on January 26, 2011, 03:07:22 PM
Grateful that I'll be adding another little one to the family giving my boy Tristan a brother or sister.  :-D :-D
(Due date is August 19th).
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Poidog on January 27, 2011, 02:04:36 PM
Grateful that I'll be adding another little one to the family giving my boy Tristan a brother or sister.  :-D :-D
(Due date is August 19th).
Awesome, Scurvy!!!  Congrats, brother.  We miss you in NoHo.

Aloha, Poi
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on January 28, 2011, 01:48:33 PM
Quote
Grateful that I'll be adding another little one to the family giving my boy Tristan a brother or sister.(Due date is August 19th).

A big congrats from me as well.

Grateful to essentially have reached what should be a fun weekend.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Scurvy Dog on January 28, 2011, 06:13:41 PM
Thanks guys! Grateful to have good friends!
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on January 29, 2011, 11:39:22 AM
Grateful for my wonderful wife. She's celebrating a birthday today.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on January 31, 2011, 09:20:01 AM
Grateful for a good start to a new week.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: jcordova on January 31, 2011, 09:34:22 AM
Amen to that Guide Dog. :-D
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Stickgrappler on February 01, 2011, 02:04:32 PM
Grateful Guro Crafty is safe back home with his family from his Vancouver seminar.

Grateful for a good start to the month.

Grateful for an ebay win.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on February 04, 2011, 11:58:39 AM
Grateful to be in a position to start trying to pin down a date and time for a major event in my life.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: jcordova on February 04, 2011, 03:27:08 PM
Grateful to have the time and go train with Guro Marc next weekend.  :-D
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on February 07, 2011, 08:35:22 AM
Grateful for new possibilities.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on February 08, 2011, 11:08:12 AM
Grateful for a wonderful four days in Chicago doing the first DBMA SP seminar while staying at my sister's house and spending some wonderful family time with her husband, my three nephews and her, seeing Green Bay win the Superbowl, and coming home to my family.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: The Tao on February 09, 2011, 11:55:08 AM
Grateful to be back in the States.
Grateful to be leaving again shortly.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on February 09, 2011, 09:48:21 PM
Grateful to have decided upon the form that a project will take.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on February 10, 2011, 08:52:33 AM
Grateful to have a sense of where the day is going.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: The Tao on February 10, 2011, 09:41:14 AM
Grateful for open doors that lead to other doors opening.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on February 11, 2011, 01:25:34 PM
Grateful to file some important paperwork in about 45 minutes.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on February 13, 2011, 03:38:59 PM
Grateful to receive feedback on some important work.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: The Tao on February 14, 2011, 11:43:11 AM
Grateful for an unexpected invite.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: jcordova on February 14, 2011, 02:54:15 PM
Grateful to have had a good training day with Guro Marc this past Saturday. :-D
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on February 14, 2011, 05:41:42 PM
Grateful for a nice Valentine's Day with my wife.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on February 15, 2011, 06:24:58 AM
Grateful for a walk on the beach with my son, a wonderful Valentine's Day dinner with my family prepared by my wife, and grateful that my wife married me  :-)
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: jcordova on February 15, 2011, 08:16:25 AM
Grateful to have a wonderful wife and we had a wonderful V Day.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on February 17, 2011, 09:30:16 AM
Grateful for support from a variety of different directions and arenas.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on February 18, 2011, 01:52:41 PM
Grateful for a nice work week that was extremely positive.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on February 21, 2011, 02:28:13 PM
Praying for insight into a pattern , , ,
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on February 22, 2011, 04:55:52 PM
Felt terrible yesterday. Took today off from work and felt terrible for most of the day. I have a minor headache at this point, but I think I need to down some more water. Grateful to be feeling better.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: The Tao on February 23, 2011, 08:33:24 PM
I'm grateful that my life is what it is.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on February 23, 2011, 09:45:22 PM
Grateful finally to have written a difficult letter today.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on February 25, 2011, 01:25:05 AM
Grateful for a mentor to have taken the time this evening to communicate in an honest and open manner.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on February 26, 2011, 01:17:48 AM
Grateful to have a great training space coming together.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on February 27, 2011, 03:38:56 PM
Grateful for a fine day of training amongst nice people.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on March 02, 2011, 11:40:00 AM
Grateful to have the martial arts in my life.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on March 03, 2011, 07:18:15 AM
My wife is sick, so I am staying home to see that she gets some rest and gets better. Grateful to have seen my son off to school a few minutes ago.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on March 04, 2011, 11:47:10 AM
Grateful for the hope of some stillness this weekend.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on March 05, 2011, 12:58:38 PM
Grateful for a good first week of the next phase in the continuing adventure.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on March 06, 2011, 06:09:48 AM
My wife has set our TV to record the 1950s show "I love Lucy".  We watched two episodes last night with our children.  I am grateful for their laughter and for the family values of the show.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: The Tao on March 06, 2011, 07:32:25 AM
Grateful to be back to the states for a minute and grateful for a good talk with the Mexican Federal Police yesterday morning as well as a productive trip in Mexico.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: jcordova on March 06, 2011, 09:00:42 AM
Grateful to have waken to a beautiful day and to be alive :-D
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on March 06, 2011, 11:57:55 AM
Grateful my wife is so good with our children.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on March 07, 2011, 12:04:02 PM
Grateful for confusion having become clarity on some work issues.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on March 08, 2011, 08:32:30 AM
Grateful to have received the electronic and second-to-final-draft version of one of the most important documents of my life today.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on March 08, 2011, 09:36:32 AM
Grateful for the centering words of a friend.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: The Tao on March 08, 2011, 12:14:13 PM
Grateful for the persistence I was raised with. The only easy day was yesterday... This is as it should be.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: The Tao on March 09, 2011, 11:26:11 AM
Grateful to be setting up a night club in Mexico. That ought to bring some interesting people around.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: The Tao on March 10, 2011, 12:27:52 PM
Is grateful that some of my employees seek their own enlightenment, not what I think, but seek their own truth. I love it when that happens.
I steer them to Miyomoto Mushashi's "Way of Walking Alone," and let them determine for themselves their own course of action. It is nice to see the "lights come on."
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: DougMacG on March 10, 2011, 02:01:34 PM
Zen G, you inspire me to post wisdom I took from my tenant's bathroom wall yesterday:

In a world where you can be ANYTHING ..............  be yourself.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: The Tao on March 10, 2011, 02:17:13 PM
Thanks Doug.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on March 10, 2011, 11:27:36 PM
I am defending my doctoral dissertation two weeks from tomorrow. I am grateful to have received the spiral bound copy for the defense in the mail today from my editor. I am also grateful for a day of excellent training amongst good friends.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: The Tao on March 11, 2011, 06:39:58 AM
Prayers for those in Japan and Hawaii.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on March 11, 2011, 09:49:45 PM
Grateful for a fun dinner with friends. Prayers for those lost and injured in Japan.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on March 13, 2011, 08:27:59 AM
Prayers for the people of Japan.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: jcordova on March 13, 2011, 09:38:43 AM
Grateful to have had a wonderful party for my sister last night and prayers for the people in Japan.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on March 13, 2011, 08:39:12 PM
Grateful for four days of wonderful training that went by in a flash.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: The Tao on March 14, 2011, 12:09:01 PM
Hoping things go well this weekend in San Luis Potosi, Mexico.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Stickgrappler on March 14, 2011, 01:21:47 PM
Prayers for the people of Japan.

Ditto.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on March 14, 2011, 01:38:44 PM
Grateful to have a positive outlook on a current challenge.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on March 15, 2011, 08:41:10 AM
Grateful for today, a prep day for tomorrow: a very important day in regards to my work.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on March 15, 2011, 11:38:31 AM
We believe in you GD  :-)
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on March 15, 2011, 02:08:22 PM
Thank you, Guro.

The high school at which I teach is up for California Distinguished School recognition. Tomorrow is our validation visitation.

My dissertation defense is next Friday, which is..."surreal" is the only word that fits right now.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: The Tao on March 16, 2011, 12:11:33 PM
Praying for a safe week in Mexico.
Hoping for a response in the affirmative in regard to a letter that I sent yesterday to Somalia.
Grateful for the Martial Arts, The Dog Brothers, and Sensei Gene and Sensei Gokor.
My life is fantastic in every way. I got that from you.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on March 16, 2011, 01:20:26 PM
Grateful that the stressful part of my work day is over.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: The Tao on March 17, 2011, 12:49:21 PM
Just grateful. Everything is a matter of perspective.
Goals, if one is working towards them diligently, are only a matter of time and inevitability.
I have excellent teachers and brothers.
My life could not be any better.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on March 17, 2011, 12:55:55 PM
Grateful to be in a better frame of mind than I was an hour ago.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on March 18, 2011, 09:14:44 PM
Grateful to actually have students.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on March 19, 2011, 06:04:23 AM
Grateful to have two different missions take important steps forward.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on March 19, 2011, 04:01:50 PM
Grateful to have a supportive wife who let me take class this morning and then teach for 3 hours, all while watching our two (crazy) children.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: jcordova on March 20, 2011, 01:11:45 AM
Grateful to have celebrated my wifes birthday in company of her friends and family.  Also grateful that God had granted her another year of life with good health and a family that loves her (Myself and two daughters). :-)
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Kaju Dog on March 20, 2011, 03:18:55 AM
Gratful to be working along side my teacher and like minded Brothers again. 

Gratful for no serious injuries and an entertaining crowd at the club.  I quit drinking a bit over a week ago and seeing a lot of drunks definately encourages me to leave the booze alone. 

If any of my Brotheren end up in Fresno for whatever reason, visit Club Rome and say hello...  I got your back.

TAC  8-)
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: The Tao on March 20, 2011, 04:26:47 PM
Grateful for the straight up jungles of Southern Mexico. Grateful for the Martial Arts and all of the Dog Brothers.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on March 21, 2011, 08:12:37 AM
Where in southern Mexico?  Back in the spring of 1978 I spend three days in the prison of San Cristobal de las Casas, Chiapas due to a fight between four locals and a friend and me; we were defending the two girls under our protection from being dragged off and when we ran to the police station the only policeman on duty ran away when the four of them arrived.  Funny story in retrospect, but to this day I remain grateful that it ended well. :lol:
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on March 22, 2011, 07:37:50 AM
Grateful to have not overreacted to a stressful situation this morning.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: The Tao on March 22, 2011, 09:13:15 AM
Where in southern Mexico?  Back in the spring of 1978 I spend three days in the prison of San Cristobal de las Casas, Chiapas due to a fight between four locals and a friend and me; we were defending the two girls under our protection from being dragged off and when we ran to the police station the only policeman on duty ran away when the four of them arrived.  Funny story in retrospect, but to this day I remain grateful that it ended well. :lol:

Good morning Guro... San Luis Potosi, El Defe, Xilitla, and Zacatecas... Funny story you have there....so typical of Mexico...haha.
I'm glad that it ended well too. Chiapas....equals nice!!! I'll be back in the States at LAX tonight at 2300.

It would be nice to come down and train some when I get back. We'll exchange stories of stuff that I don't post online.

Hope all is well with everyone.

Me? I'm grateful that we have the means to learn and progress through the Martial Arts. I'm grateful that I don't have to remain ignorant forever.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on March 23, 2011, 08:46:07 AM
Graetful to attempt to overcome a high level of anxiety regarding an event this week.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on March 25, 2011, 07:56:16 AM
Grateful that today is here.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on March 25, 2011, 05:09:46 PM
Where else would today be?  :lol:
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on March 25, 2011, 08:59:56 PM
Quote
Where else would today be? 

Grateful to have successfully defended my doctoral dissertation about three hours ago.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Kaju Dog on March 27, 2011, 03:19:08 AM
Gratful for a night without incident.  Friday night was plenty for the whole weekend...  lol 

Some people are so ignorant, they just dont know how to have a good time. 

Gratful to be getting out of the house and the entertainment presented at the club each night.

 8-)
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: jcordova on March 27, 2011, 09:53:40 AM
Grateful to have had an awesome breakfast with my wife and my two beautiful daughters. :-D :-D
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on March 29, 2011, 11:53:14 AM
Grateful for another professional challenge to come to a close today.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on March 29, 2011, 07:21:59 PM
Grateful for my dentist.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on March 30, 2011, 07:48:17 AM
Grateful to be in the presence of positive energy.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Rachel on March 30, 2011, 06:47:11 PM
Congratulations Guide Dog on successfully defending your dissertation. That is an awesome accomplishment!
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on March 31, 2011, 09:00:28 PM
Quote
Congratulations Guide Dog on successfully defending your dissertation. That is an awesome accomplishment!

Thank you for the kind words, Rachel!
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on April 01, 2011, 04:15:16 AM
Grateful for wonderful family time.

Grateful for Boxing Works, an outstaning place to have the unusual workouts that I do.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on April 04, 2011, 09:21:03 AM
Grateful to be able to create in the moment.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: The Tao on April 04, 2011, 01:17:41 PM
Grateful for all of you. You've left a mark. A very positive one. I can't thank each of you enough.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on April 05, 2011, 08:11:04 AM
Grateful for having support on limitless possibilities.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on April 05, 2011, 03:34:28 PM
Grateful for a day at the gun range with my 11 year old son.  He handled himself very well; proud dad.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on April 06, 2011, 09:34:32 PM
Grateful to have students who seem to LOVE training as much as I do.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on April 07, 2011, 07:52:24 AM
Grateful to have worked it out so that my wife can participate in a yoga retreat.
Title: Prayers for Japan
Post by: G M on April 07, 2011, 08:01:15 AM
Another earthquake. God bless them.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on April 12, 2011, 07:43:31 AM
Continued prayers for Japan.

Grateful to be able to maintain some levity about two situations.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on April 13, 2011, 10:05:33 AM
Grateful for the pace of the day.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on April 13, 2011, 10:29:09 AM
Grateful for my Pretty Kitty!
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on April 14, 2011, 07:48:50 AM
Grateful that a 24/36 hour cold is making its exit from our house.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on April 15, 2011, 09:49:18 AM
Grateful to be able to bring about creative expression in others.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on April 18, 2011, 07:27:05 AM
Grateful for a particular work assignment.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on April 19, 2011, 11:01:26 AM
Grateful for good music in my life. Nothing specific, just the general soundtrack of my life right now. Grateful to be alive in a time in which I can transport my entire music collection in a single, small object, because I thought it was pretty cool when I bought my first CD at 11.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on April 20, 2011, 07:36:19 AM
Grateful for a sense of renewal regarding a particular endeavour.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on April 20, 2011, 04:36:53 PM
Grateful for a reminder today about , , , gratitude :-D
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on April 21, 2011, 07:29:30 AM
Grateful to be days away from some stillness.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on April 22, 2011, 11:19:40 AM
Grateful for one of the mentors in my life.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: JDN on April 24, 2011, 07:44:17 AM
Grateful for Easter.

Forgiveness is an important message to remember...
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on April 24, 2011, 10:07:54 AM
Grateful for a nice day yesterday at an amusement park with several generations of family. Also, Happy Easter to all those who are celebrating it!
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on April 29, 2011, 01:03:20 PM
Prayers for a friend on his way to Afghanistan
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Hello Kitty on May 01, 2011, 07:13:29 PM
Grateful for the freedom to be oneself, in spite of what others think.
Grateful for truly lawless places.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Hello Kitty on May 01, 2011, 09:28:03 PM
Grateful for the sweeeeeet tasting Cuban cigar that I just smoked in honour of Osama Bin Laden being toast. Sweet, sweet taste.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on May 04, 2011, 12:08:19 PM
Grateful for students who wanted extra credit who bought me supplies my employer can no longer afford.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: jcordova on May 04, 2011, 01:26:48 PM
Grateful to have helped a family in need in hard times.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on May 10, 2011, 09:21:42 AM
Grateful for a wonderful trip to and seminar in Israel.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on May 11, 2011, 08:28:16 AM
Grateful for a light comedy last night after the kids were asleep.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on May 12, 2011, 02:36:00 PM
Grateful for a temporary sense of order.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Gong Fu Dog on May 18, 2011, 12:00:30 PM
Grateful for one of the best weekends ever!
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: bigdog on May 23, 2011, 05:00:22 PM
Please keep the people of Joplin, MO in your prayers.  Or thoughts.  Or...

It looks really, really bad and the news seems to be getting worse. 

http://www.nytimes.com/2011/05/24/us/24tornado.html?pagewanted=1&_r=1 
 
 
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: DougMacG on May 23, 2011, 10:07:39 PM
Amen to that BD. Worst in 60 years...

Nothing like Joplin MO, but yesterday was my first tornado ever as a property owner - Minneapolis was hit hard also. God Bless my tenants who ran for to their basements and found safety while the funnel ran through.  I have some cleanup to do, these are 2 story homes buried in debris with pieces of the homes knocked off.  Streets closed, schools closed, all wires down, power off, helicopters circling and 9pm curfew. It wasn't looting at the liquor store where the whole top blew off according to the owner they were taking the bottles out on the honor system when he got there. Lots of photos today but it looks about like this in every direction:
(http://i603.photobucket.com/albums/tt114/dougmacg/Photo_052311_014.jpg)
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: bigdog on May 24, 2011, 03:55:06 AM
Good luck to you and yours, DougMacG. 
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on May 25, 2011, 08:41:04 AM
Grateful to finally have a day during which I feel good after being sick for quite a while, thinking I was better for a day, and then getting another cold!

Prayers for all those affected by the recent, extreme weather.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: G M on May 25, 2011, 08:46:58 AM
Prayers out for all those hit by the storms. Be safe, Doug, Bigdog.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on May 26, 2011, 08:03:15 AM
Grateful for the approach of a significant event.
Title: Prayers for Prof. Wally Jay
Post by: Crafty_Dog on May 27, 2011, 07:04:08 AM
Prayers for Prof. Wally Jay, whom we have heard is in the hospital due to a stroke.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on May 31, 2011, 10:53:14 PM
Grateful to have made it through a minor spiritual dark period this weekend. Prayers for Professor Wally Jay's family and students; may their grieving be what it needs to be.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on June 03, 2011, 07:36:35 AM
Grateful to have seen a friendly face from out of state in class last night.
Title: Prayer
Post by: Crafty_Dog on June 03, 2011, 07:52:32 AM
Praying for inner harmony while surrounded by strife , , ,
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on June 04, 2011, 01:15:02 PM
Grateful for a few sustained weeks during which my practice as a martial artist, both teaching and being a student, feels like spiritual, mental, and emotional high octane fuel.
Title: And a child shall lead them
Post by: Crafty_Dog on June 05, 2011, 04:54:29 PM


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a6ybwW8jqjs
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on June 07, 2011, 10:06:43 PM
Great vid, GC.

Grateful that the very fruitful 2010-2011 academic year is coming to close. It has been a great year.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on June 15, 2011, 05:28:04 PM
Grateful to have had my pink slip rescinded for my current high school teaching job, which I happen to like an awful lot. It is going to be a very different summer than I thought it was going to be in terms of stress.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on June 15, 2011, 07:47:45 PM
 8-) 8-) 8-)
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Gong Fu Dog on June 21, 2011, 10:58:55 AM
Grateful for all the brothers I met at the last Tribal Gathering   :-)
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on June 21, 2011, 10:59:58 AM
Grateful for good times teaching in Memphis this weekend, and grateful to be home with my wonderful family.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: jcordova on June 21, 2011, 05:15:43 PM
Grateful to have had a wonderful fathers day this past Sunday.  I was surrounded with lots of family and specially my wife and two daughters.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on June 23, 2011, 09:12:07 PM
Prayers for those of us in pain of body, soul, and spirit.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on June 29, 2011, 10:44:10 AM
Grateful for a nice morning of watching a Pixar movie with my almost two year old daughter. Prayers for a tribe member and the wife of another tribe member.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on June 29, 2011, 11:22:21 PM
Grateful for a nice day of teaching.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on June 30, 2011, 09:34:08 AM
Grateful for a sustained sense of momentum regarding a project.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on July 03, 2011, 07:01:02 AM
Grateful to have been born in America.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on July 03, 2011, 03:07:09 PM
Quote
Grateful to have been born in America.

I am grateful for the same thing as GC.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: jcordova on July 03, 2011, 05:22:53 PM
Grateful to have celebrated my 39th B-Day at Cuyamaca camp site near Julian, CA with my wife and two daughters. I ALSO THANK GOD FOR GIVING ME ANOTHER YEAR OF LIFE. :-D
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on July 04, 2011, 10:19:18 PM
Grateful for a wonderful Fourth with family and friends. Happy Independence Day to all who are celebrating!
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on July 07, 2011, 09:37:32 AM
Grateful to have three seats on the red eye flight from Philly to Zurich last night so I was able to lay down and sleep for about 4 hours.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on July 07, 2011, 10:57:50 AM
Grateful for an opportunity that landed in my lap this morning.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on July 09, 2011, 11:28:05 AM
Grateful to have gotten up early with my kids to let my wife sleep in, and then to have gone back to sleep while she hung out with them.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Gong Fu Dog on July 13, 2011, 11:28:18 AM
Grateful for a strong Gathering with lots of beautiful fights!
Grateful for the teaching from Guro Crafty and all the new ideas for my 3SS Game!
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on July 15, 2011, 05:33:18 PM
Grateful for a wonderful day of training with friends.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on July 16, 2011, 08:04:05 PM
Grateful for a lively dinner amongst friends.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Hello Kitty on July 17, 2011, 11:48:10 AM
Grateful for the opportunity to be elevated from a pigeon to an eagle in a foreign land.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: jcordova on July 17, 2011, 07:48:35 PM
Grateful to have had a wonderful evening with my sistersand nephews while doing a cook out for them.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on July 19, 2011, 10:14:49 AM
Grateful for my children.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on July 20, 2011, 12:56:54 PM
Grateful for many exciting possibilities coming my way this week.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Stickgrappler on July 20, 2011, 01:48:09 PM
38th anniversary of Bruce Lee's passing.

Grateful for his teachings which have had a positive impact on my thinking/training.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on July 23, 2011, 02:08:55 PM
The tragedies in Norway, a bullet train crash in China, and Amy Winehouse dying have me a little freaked out today.

I know many will say something like, "Is it all that shocking that she's dead?" No matter how troubled people are, I am always a little shocked when they leave us.

Prayers for those lost in Norway, China, and for Ms. Winehouse's family/friends/fans.

Preyers that there will be lots of good news tomorrow to balance this all out, no matter how naive that may make me.

I am also scared that as a country, we are going to default on our debt. I pray for a resolution.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on July 29, 2011, 12:08:36 PM
Grateful for a clean house. Let's see how many minutes it keeps!
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on July 29, 2011, 12:57:49 PM
Grateful for the collective of Adventures that constitute my life.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on July 30, 2011, 11:10:16 AM
Grateful to be hosting a good family friend from out of town for the weekend. Sometimes (especially when you have little children), it's nice to be in the company of adults.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: jcordova on July 30, 2011, 07:53:49 PM
Grateful to have my mother back safely from a trip to new jersey and for telling me that my youngest sister is doing well. :-D
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Kaju Dog on July 31, 2011, 04:40:42 AM
Praying that my name makes it to the registered fighter list, 

Gratfiul for having sent it in a week or so ago,   :evil: :lol:
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on July 31, 2011, 09:53:21 AM
Grateful for a lasting opportunity in a list that has been consistently disappointing.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on July 31, 2011, 09:44:17 PM
Kaju:  Pretty Kitty is focused on our family vacation.

All:  Grateful for a cruise on the upper Hudson River today (Catskill area).  As a boy in NYC I remember the river as being a flowing cesspool.  In the decades since my youth, major progress has been made and Ospreys now feed on the fish in the river and people waterski and fish amongst the lily pads along the shore.  Grateful for this example that not all declines are irreversible, and grateful to those who worked to make this happen.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on August 02, 2011, 09:46:25 AM
Grateful for seeming to be a small step away from something positive.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: DougMacG on August 02, 2011, 12:42:14 PM
Grateful for another glorious summer, for a little time away for a family reunion, to continue family traditions at a 100+ year old lake place with cousins who were my buddies growing up, for the grandchildren to have extended time with their grandparents, to get to better know our relatives from further away, to see my daughter enjoying the same sports and activities we enjoy and grateful to have added a new family member to the group.   :-)
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Hello Kitty on August 03, 2011, 09:29:34 AM
Grateful to be able to have fun and enjoy life.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: jcordova on August 03, 2011, 01:37:11 PM
Grateful to have a good working A/C during these 115 degree temps in Yuma.  :-D
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Cranewings on August 03, 2011, 09:52:21 PM
Grateful for my health and my new home.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on August 03, 2011, 09:58:10 PM
Grateful to have students.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Hello Kitty on August 04, 2011, 10:10:49 AM
Grateful to be employed.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Kaju Dog on August 04, 2011, 03:09:49 PM
Grateful for the wisdom and consistancy of our Guiding Force.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on August 05, 2011, 09:58:41 PM
Grateful for a good day with a good friend and to have met some of his family.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on August 07, 2011, 05:57:37 PM
Grateful for inspiration.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: danicasdad on August 07, 2011, 10:42:07 PM
pray to be a better father for my children and a better man for my wife. pray to be a better warrior for those here.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Hello Kitty on August 10, 2011, 10:54:53 AM
Grateful to be back in the States.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on August 10, 2011, 05:53:36 PM
Grateful for a painful insight last night.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: G M on August 10, 2011, 07:00:15 PM
Grateful to live in a place where armed self-defense is a right enshrined in law.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Kaju Dog on August 10, 2011, 08:46:36 PM
Grateful for my families strength and love as we venture to Santa Cruz for a last hoorah before the kids go back to school.  Just happens to also fall on Jades birthday.  *(She would have been turning 7 this year)

A fathers love is eternal  :cry:

Best wishes to everyone attending this weekends trainning camp, "Friends at the end of the day"  :-)
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: G M on August 10, 2011, 08:52:43 PM
Grateful for my families strength and love as we venture to Santa Cruz for a last hoorah before the kids go back to school.  Just happens to also fall on Jades birthday.  *(She would have been turning 7 this year)

A fathers love is eternal  :cry:

Best wishes to everyone attending this weekends trainning camp, "Friends at the end of the day"  :-)

For what it's worth, it's my belief that lost children exist in the embrace of the heavenly father and that you will see her again.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: jcordova on August 10, 2011, 09:35:16 PM
Amen to that GM and Kaju Dog. Go bless
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Hello Kitty on August 11, 2011, 04:08:19 PM
Grateful to be enrolled back in school. I probably need to focus on that for a while. I've been studying Arabic and Chinese. Grateful for what my Creator gave me.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on August 15, 2011, 05:28:42 AM
I am blessed to get to do what I do and to do it with whom I do.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on August 17, 2011, 10:03:40 PM
Grateful for another evening of mentally saying, "Man, I would rather do anything than teach tonight", that turned into me walking in my house afterwards, mentally saying, "I love martial arts."
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: jcordova on August 19, 2011, 07:10:31 AM
Thankful for the support and love my wife has given me for the past 13 years :-)
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Hello Kitty on August 20, 2011, 09:44:34 AM
Grateful for my life. Even the seemingly difficult parts of it. I am blessed.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Kaju Dog on August 21, 2011, 02:11:39 PM
Greatful for the peace and quiet of no cell phones for a few days.  (Lemons=Lemonade)

Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Hello Kitty on August 21, 2011, 02:48:46 PM
Grateful for the will to fight that I've been blessed with. Grateful to be getting my daughter back from Russia in two weeks. It's been almost two years.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on August 22, 2011, 01:13:19 AM
Grateful that a nice summer that has allowed me to spend time with my children is coming to a close. I am ready to get back to work, and the fall will bring with it answers about what space will end up being my first commercial school.

Grateful for a long, silly phone conversation with my best friend that lasted late into the evening.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Hello Kitty on August 26, 2011, 09:01:00 AM
Grateful to finally understand a concept that had previously eluded me.
Grateful for yesterday's conversation.
Grateful that I understand that I have much to learn.
Grateful for those of you reading this (all of you).
Grateful for the chance to pull my head out.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Gibby on August 26, 2011, 10:10:45 AM
Grateful that I am still alive.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Kaju Dog on August 27, 2011, 03:44:53 AM
Gratful for a comfy couch and pray that we all get some needed rest before the Gathering  :-)
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: C-Mighty Dog on August 27, 2011, 11:26:48 PM
I am grateful....tearfully grateful that my wife understands and supports my crazy need to be a man. I am also grateful that she expects me to take a good nap after a training session or a hard day at work.
After all my injuries, she will never ask me to stop, but rather fill the ice pack, help with my shoulder sling and do range of motion when I need it. I am truly blessed!
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on August 28, 2011, 12:14:13 PM
Grateful that today is the last day of summer.
Grateful that my first class tomorrow is a group of 9th grade honors students, and I get to shape their first 45 minutes of high school.
Grateful that I have found a location, and by the middle of next week, t's will be crossed and i's dotted...I will be moving my garage martial arts program into a proper warehouse!
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on August 28, 2011, 01:00:31 PM
Grateful for wonderful time with my family.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on August 30, 2011, 09:38:50 PM
Grateful for when seemingly simple processes turn out to actually be simple.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on August 31, 2011, 03:57:34 AM
Prayers for a particular piece of news , , ,
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Gibby on August 31, 2011, 07:57:45 PM
Grateful that my buddy survived a motorcycle accident.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Hello Kitty on September 01, 2011, 01:19:23 PM
Grateful for my university instructor in Chinese. probably the hardest thing that I've ever studied. She is efficient.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: jcordova on September 02, 2011, 10:28:46 AM
Grateful that my wife is supporting me for the upcoming gathering :-D
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on September 02, 2011, 11:36:37 AM
Grateful to have moved my first car load's worth of equipment into my new school.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on September 02, 2011, 07:28:44 PM
Grateful for a cagey BB showing me tonight a slick move from a control position that I use a lot in DLO.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Hello Kitty on September 07, 2011, 01:34:47 PM
Prayers for my nephew that was found dead from a herion overdose and for my brother.
I don't hate very many people, but I hate criminals. I should probably pray for them too.
My Creator's understanding surpasses my own.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: bigdog on September 08, 2011, 04:43:26 AM
My condolences for your loss.  My heart goes out to you and yours.   :cry:
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Hello Kitty on September 08, 2011, 08:55:10 AM
My condolences for your loss.  My heart goes out to you and yours.   :cry:

Thank you...
At least the people here are committed to making the world a better place.
Thank you for that.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Kaju Dog on September 08, 2011, 01:03:10 PM
My condolences for your loss.  My heart goes out to you and yours.   :cry:

Thank you...
At least the people here are committed to making the world a better place.
Thank you for that.

Amen.

Praying that my fax machine worked today & I am gratful for Maureen being so patient with me.   :wink:
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: DougMacG on September 16, 2011, 04:02:35 PM
It was late to start here and now starting to slip away, but I am grateful for another most beautiful and glorious summer.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Dr Dog on September 20, 2011, 11:18:48 AM
Woof all! Grateful for so much that I don't know where to begin.  Grateful for a brotherhood where people understand that without me having to say any more.

Dog Rick
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Hello Kitty on September 20, 2011, 11:59:30 AM
Woof all! Grateful for so much that I don't know where to begin.  Grateful for a brotherhood where people understand that without me having to say any more.

Dog Rick

You said a mouthful without saying all that much.

Ditto.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Seeing-Eye Dog on September 20, 2011, 01:06:18 PM
Grateful that there were no serious injuries at the last Gathering.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Gibby on September 20, 2011, 05:35:39 PM
Grateful to have the opportunity to attend my first Gathering and benefit from the years of hard work and dedication of those who came before me.

Thank you!
gibby
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: C-Mighty Dog on September 20, 2011, 06:00:33 PM
I'm grateful that my shoulder didn't hurt...well only one time, but I survived. Today, I'm not fighting and my shoulder is locking and catching all the time. Need to find someone to fight. :-D
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on September 20, 2011, 06:30:19 PM
Grateful for what I do and that I have my Pretty Kitty to share the Adventure with me.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on September 21, 2011, 09:50:33 PM
Had a moment of pure bliss tonight teaching martial arts in my new space. Only half of my mats were set up but we were finally able to safely cover some panuntukan/Silat style throws. One of my students said something like "I was completely exhausted before I got here tonight, but you're so excited when you teach that you make it impossible not to get pumped up."

I'm grateful for all of my instructors, including GC, who have played a part in shaping what I have to offer my students. After I had closed the big warehouse door, before I drove home at the end of the night, I stood in the wai position facing the many pictures (including some DB action shots) I have in my new academy with my eyes closed for about 30 seconds. It was an intense moment of feeling like I was doing exactly what I am supposed to be doing with my life.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on September 22, 2011, 03:58:04 AM
Yes!!!
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Hello Kitty on September 22, 2011, 08:38:49 AM
Grateful to finally be working things out with the wife, with both sides making improvements. It's best for my little girl. My wife and I are replaceable to each other. My little girl's upbringing is not.
Edit: I do have a great wife and life. I should mention that.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Gong Fu Dog on September 22, 2011, 10:49:45 AM
Grateful for a beautiful Seminar with Guro Lonely Dog
Grateful for the lessons Guro Lonely Dog teached me during Knife Sparring
Grateful for being a member of the Tribe
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: C-Yo Dog on September 22, 2011, 02:26:02 PM
Grateful for honest people.

Monday when I flew back into PDX from the Gathering, I got some frozen Yogurt with my gf and we sat on a park bench to eat it. Unbenounced to me my wallet fell out of my pocket and I didn't realize this until the next afternoon. I went to a starbucks directly across from the bench and was told a woman had found it Tuesday morning. The woman told the employees not to worry that she was going to turn it into the police. I just picked up my wallet with money and all in it from the police. Now I'm trying to track the officer that took it so I can get her name and thank her profusely. :-D
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Kaju Dog on September 23, 2011, 02:21:33 AM
Had a moment of pure bliss tonight teaching martial arts in my new space. Only half of my mats were set up but we were finally able to safely cover some panuntukan/Silat style throws. One of my students said something like "I was completely exhausted before I got here tonight, but you're so excited when you teach that you make it impossible not to get pumped up."

I'm grateful for all of my instructors, including GC, who have played a part in shaping what I have to offer my students. After I had closed the big warehouse door, before I drove home at the end of the night, I stood in the wai position facing the many pictures (including some DB action shots) I have in my new academy with my eyes closed for about 30 seconds. It was an intense moment of feeling like I was doing exactly what I am supposed to be doing with my life.

Cherrish this feeling and work hard to maintain it.  Proud to be your Dog Brother in this life.  Yip
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Hello Kitty on September 23, 2011, 03:44:47 PM
Grateful for the keepsake. Stuff like that doesn't just fall from trees and even though Miyamoto Musashi warns against items of sentimental value, in this case, I'll make an exception.

I'm just damn grateful. Had my head in the sand for quite a while.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: jcordova on September 27, 2011, 10:31:56 AM
Grateful to be back home safe to my family from 2 1/2 weeks of hard and stressful days.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Gibby on September 28, 2011, 06:17:00 PM
Grateful that I will be healed "enough" from the Gathering that I can participate in the NOHO Beat The Crap out of Cancer event!  There is no better cause and I am honored to be able to step out with more folks from the tribe!

TPAC! (the PAINFUL adventure continues) LOL
gibby
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Gibby on September 28, 2011, 06:18:04 PM
Grateful to be back home safe to my family from 2 1/2 weeks of hard and stressful days.

Also grateful that Sifu Cordova is back home safe!  I hope to cross sticks with you some day Sifu!

Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: jcordova on September 29, 2011, 10:44:11 AM
Thanks Gibby  :-D.  We sure will one day.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Hello Kitty on October 01, 2011, 10:00:50 PM
I'm grateful that I really understand both sides of it. I didn't before, and I paid a heavy price for it. These days, mostly, I'm just grateful to have the relationships that I have, on both sides. I learn from them both...what I want to be like and what I don want to be like, and psychology.
Long day, many miles, grateful to have a bed to sleep in. So many of our boys are sleeping in the dirt, rain and mud right this second. I'm grateful for them and what they do.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on October 04, 2011, 10:28:28 AM
Grateful for the help of family.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Kaju Dog on October 05, 2011, 07:11:51 PM
Gratful for the ability to communicate with my Wife and find clarity where there once was confussion.  The love and support of a great family as we near our 13 yr wedding anniversary. 

Semper Fidelis

I feel blessed as this week goes on, it has been a while since I could say that.  Only days ago, I was lost and feeling hopeless. 

This past Gathering Adventure has helped to brighten the way as well.

Mahalo Nui Loa DB's  :-)
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on October 07, 2011, 08:08:54 AM
Grateful to have gotten, and gotten over my first cold of the 2011-2012 academic year.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Seeing-Eye Dog on October 07, 2011, 11:33:56 AM
Grateful for the ability to be healthy enough to interview today.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: maija on October 09, 2011, 05:40:45 PM
Grateful for a wonderful two and a half days in at Maija and Mike's place in the mountains of Sonoma County learning and sharing with some wonderful people: Rory Miller, Rob Crowley, Maija, and Mac.

The Adventure continues!
CD
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on October 09, 2011, 07:36:57 PM
Grateful for a nice event with my extended family.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: G M on October 09, 2011, 08:55:25 PM
Grateful for a wonderful two and a half days in at Maija and Mike's place in the mountains of Sonoma County learning and sharing with some wonderful people: Rory Miller, Rob Crowley, Maija, and Mac.

The Adventure continues!
CD

The Rory Miller of "Meditations on Violence"? Awesome!
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Gibby on October 12, 2011, 08:51:16 PM
Gratitude for being able to spend the last 15 years with my ex-wife's grandpa who I loved as my own, before he succumbed last night to complications from prostate cancer and a recent stroke.

He was a wonderful man and he will be missed!

Love ya Walt!
gibby
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on October 12, 2011, 09:44:52 PM
GM:  Yes, that RM  :wink: :-D and I am greatful for it  8-)

Gibby: The wood is consumed but the fire burns on.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Gibby on October 15, 2011, 10:27:32 PM
Thanks Crafty, sounds good to me!

I am thankful today to have had the opportunity to use our stickfighting to raise money for "Kids Kicking Cancer"  HUGE thanks goes out to all of those people who made it possible and put in their time and effort for such a cause.

I am thankful that there were no major injuries and that I believe, we all became a little bit better people because of today.

Have to admit that I am thankful that Poi-Dog didn't jack me up during our single stick and long training knife fights.. :-D

T A C
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on October 16, 2011, 07:54:02 AM
Grateful for some wonderful time with my wife.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Hello Kitty on October 18, 2011, 01:50:55 PM
Grateful for the Pledge of Allegiance.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: jcordova on October 18, 2011, 06:18:05 PM
Grateful that things at home are running smoothly after a couple of stressful months. :-)
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on October 19, 2011, 10:06:11 AM
Grateful for some new students; their training has been a pleasure.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on October 20, 2011, 08:07:56 AM
Grateful for a having an afternoon spent with my family in my sights.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on October 21, 2011, 02:21:02 PM
Grateful for the excitement that comes with assigning one of my favorite projects of the year to my high school students: make a 90 second to 2 and a half minute trailer (preview) for the different works of core literature explored in grades 9 through 12.

The kids are very excited and so am I!
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Hello Kitty on October 21, 2011, 05:47:21 PM
Grateful for the ability to travel and go on another trip.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on October 22, 2011, 08:30:37 AM
Grateful for now being fully awake and ready to go after my kids having started the day (morning) earlier than I wanted to.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on October 23, 2011, 02:55:12 PM
Grateful to watch my son compete in his first BJJ tournament today.  He took home the Bronze 8-)
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: cordtheseeker on October 23, 2011, 04:22:16 PM
Way to go, Conrad!!!!!  8-) 8-) 8-) 8-) 8-)
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on October 24, 2011, 04:32:35 AM
The joys of fatherhood are deep.  For me the best parts of the day were the clarity of his focus, the way he stayed calm when he got mounted by a boy who clearly had done many tournaments from a school that was tournament focused and reversed him, and the way he handled both winning and then losing.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: jcordova on October 24, 2011, 01:53:51 PM
Grateful to have my two daughters in good health and give them our love as parents. :-D
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on October 26, 2011, 07:48:54 AM
I was down for two days with what my doc called "stress-related lower back cramping". Grateful to be feeling better; I am back at work and I will be back teaching the FMA's tonight.

GC - I reads like Conrad took away a lot more from the experience than his medal. I have to ask: Is fighting at a Gathering something you might want for your children in their futures?
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on October 27, 2011, 08:09:38 AM
Grateful for a Thursday that is in no way making me reach for Friday.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on October 28, 2011, 07:37:07 AM
A 12th grader at the high school at which I teach English passed away yesterday morning, before school. The cause of death has not yet been determined.

Prayers for his family and friends.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on October 29, 2011, 03:23:15 PM
Grateful for a day of fall/winter cleaning around my home. It is very much needed.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on October 31, 2011, 08:48:24 AM
Prayers to everyone celebrating for a safe, fun Halloween.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on November 01, 2011, 11:35:36 AM
Grateful for the completion of some daunting work looming in the near future.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on November 02, 2011, 07:55:04 AM
While October was a fine month, I'm grateful to see November.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on November 04, 2011, 08:03:16 AM
Grateful for the possability of a real vacation.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: cordtheseeker on November 04, 2011, 01:37:31 PM
Grateful for the opportunity to apply knowledge gained from reading into a certain dynamic at work.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on November 07, 2011, 02:19:40 PM
Grateful that this is a four-day work week.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on November 08, 2011, 06:02:41 AM
Grateful for an outstanding weekend of training.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on November 16, 2011, 10:24:01 PM
I'm grateful for my students in both of the schools at which I teach.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on November 20, 2011, 09:01:05 PM
Grateful for a wonderful weekend teachings for Pete and Carlos. And for the time with my sister and nephews.sq. one more day to go!
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on November 21, 2011, 12:43:09 PM
Grateful for extra sleep. I'm not complaining, but I had forgotten what it felt like to be somewhat well-rested.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: bigdog on November 22, 2011, 02:48:29 PM
I am about to close up shop for the week.  Happy Thanksgiving to one and all.

Today, I am thankful for the forum that Guro Crafty provides, for the insight offered by many here, and by the continued challenge that some of you provide.  I truly appreciate the opportunities to learn from, debate with, and be edified by you.  May all of you have an excellent Thanksgiving, with family and friends by your side.  Safe travels for those of you who are going somewhere else.

Things I am feeling thankful for:

1.  The opportunities that this nation provides its citizens.
2.  Freedoms of speech, religion, press and to keep and bear arms.
3.  Sticks.
4.  Swinging them.
5.  Damn good teachers who have taken an interest in me over the years, in many different guises.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on November 23, 2011, 03:10:04 PM
"O great Creator of being! Grant us this our to perform our Art and perfect our lives!"

Jim Morrison
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on November 29, 2011, 08:56:23 AM
Grateful for an all around great evening last night.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on November 29, 2011, 02:22:06 PM
I am blessed to be where I am doing what I am meant to do.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on November 30, 2011, 01:05:52 PM
Grateful for a fun day with my students.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on November 30, 2011, 08:44:43 PM
Another blessed day  8-)
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on December 01, 2011, 08:01:49 AM
November was a fine month, but I am grateful to greet December.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on December 01, 2011, 05:27:38 PM
Grateful for some fun & games with lively FOF training today.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on December 02, 2011, 08:11:46 AM
Grateful for Friday and the holidays now visible on the horizon.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on December 03, 2011, 01:23:31 PM
Grateful for a relaxing morning with my wife and kids.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: jcordova on December 03, 2011, 02:03:15 PM
Grateful to have watched my oldest daughter play soccer and placed 3rd place out of 10 teams. :-D
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on December 03, 2011, 05:42:11 PM
Grateful for having picked up some slick new material.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on December 04, 2011, 09:23:30 AM
Grateful to come back around to some old questions.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on December 05, 2011, 09:07:15 AM
Grateful to be one day closer to the holidays.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on December 06, 2011, 03:22:38 AM
Grateful to be home from nine wonderful days on the road.  I love my family!
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on December 11, 2011, 08:48:11 AM
Grateful for the beginnings of two new projects.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on December 13, 2011, 08:13:26 AM
Grateful for some impending fun over the next few days.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on December 14, 2011, 08:16:40 AM
Prayers for those injured/killed in the attack yesterday in Belgium.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on December 14, 2011, 08:25:32 AM
Amen.

Grateful for each day's Adventure!
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Kaju Dog on December 14, 2011, 04:46:58 PM
Gratful to be teaching tonite, even if it is only 1.  Gratful he is a seasoned LEO that shows up every time with an empty cup  :wink:
We grow together... 8-)
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on December 15, 2011, 07:45:39 AM
Quote
Gratful to be teaching tonite, even if it is only 1

Amen, Kaju.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: jcordova on December 15, 2011, 08:02:11 AM
Grateful to have friends like Kaju that help teach brothers in LE.  Thanks my brother  :-D
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on December 16, 2011, 04:40:48 PM
Dear Winter Vacation,

You arrived today with the wind at your back. LOTS and LOTS of wind. I am grateful for you.

Sincerely,

Guide Dog  :-D
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on December 23, 2011, 03:25:30 PM
Grateful to have a friend home from Afghanistan.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: jcordova on December 25, 2011, 07:54:03 AM
Greatful to have had a great and wonderful Christmas time with my wife's family and mine and also that everyone were in great spirits. Thank you my lord....
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: DougMacG on December 25, 2011, 10:25:18 PM
Merry Christmas to everyone so inclined to accept that as an offering of peace, love and friendship.  I am grateful to be alive and to have family healthy and together for this tradition and celebration.  I am grateful for the Catholic Church for welcoming me in as a non-member with their celebration of positive messages: Joy to the World, Glory to God in the Highest, peace be with you, forgive those who trespass against us, and Hark the Herald Angels sing.  The music to me brings a beauty and emotion bursting with the pride of having my daughter and other family members among the musicians contributing to this important celebration for so many people.  The lights of Christmas help to illuminate what would otherwise be the darkest days of the year.

Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on December 30, 2011, 08:52:19 AM
I am always wiped out by the time we reach this space between X-mas/Hanukkah and New Year's. My wife likes BIG New Year's Eve plans; I don't care. I don't need a day/season to get me moving on projects.

Grateful for low-key New Year's Eve plans with which my wife seems satisfied.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on December 30, 2011, 10:25:40 AM
And my wife and I are grateful to have found someone we trust to watch our children while we go out for New Year's for the first time in  , , , , 13 years?!?  :-o :lol:
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on December 31, 2011, 11:18:09 AM
Quote
And my wife and I are grateful to have found someone we trust to watch our children while we go out for New Year's for the first time in  , , , , 13 years?!?   

Rock on, Guro. I hope you an PK have a great time.

Grateful for a most excellent year. Happy New Year to all!
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Stickgrappler on December 31, 2011, 04:21:05 PM
Very cool Guro C and PK! Enjoy!





Happy New Year to the DB forumites! May the New Year find you and your loved ones healthier, wealthier, wiser, happier, and more successful than this last year!

Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on January 01, 2012, 05:00:04 PM
Grateful for a wonderful time last night at a fun party with a really good group of people.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: jcordova on January 01, 2012, 06:38:47 PM
Grateful to have celebrated my youngest daughters B-Day today.  Also, to have celebrated New Years with family and friends.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Kaju Dog on January 02, 2012, 03:50:24 PM
Gratful to start off the new year with a new student and the continued loyalty of a current student.  Both seasoned LEO's.   8-)

Blessed to be able to attend this years "Winter Camp" - Woof! :-)
Title: Re: Prayer - Sarah Burke
Post by: DougMacG on January 11, 2012, 10:46:20 AM
How about a prayer for super skier Sarah Burke, ESPY award winner for best female action sports athlete, who is in a coma after a training accident  yesterday.  Her talent and charm on display in this ESPN interview a few days ago:

http://espn.go.com/action/freeskiing/story/_/id/7420109/sarah-burke-plans-winter-x-games-2012-aspen
http://www.sltrib.com/sltrib/sports/53278881-77/burke-hospital-condition-family.html.csp
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on February 03, 2012, 12:50:46 AM
Grateful to reach a stopping point (just to breathe, not stop all together) on two projects. Grateful to be back here on these boards.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on February 05, 2012, 02:09:34 PM
And we are glad to have you back.

On a very separate note, it appears our family cat "the Schnoo" has reached the end of her days.  She has been showered with great love by all of us.  She may be gone before I return home.  All of us, most certainly including me, are grateful to have had this wonderful kitty in our life.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on February 06, 2012, 01:57:10 PM
Grateful for 2012. So far, so good.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on February 07, 2012, 11:39:09 AM
Grateful for the near completion of a project.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: bigdog on February 07, 2012, 06:09:52 PM
I am thankful to hear of good things coming from Guro Crafty and Guide Dog.

I am grateful for an afternoon well spent with some dedicated scholar warriors and for the possibility of good things to come for the country ... and for a personal endeavor. 
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Karunamama on March 02, 2012, 12:28:26 PM
Prayers for the people in Harrisburg, IL which is about 40 miles from where we live.  A tornado struck there Wednesday, killing 6 and injuring 100.  Severe weather coming through again today, we were under a tornado watch, but it seems to have been downgraded to a wind advisory.

Makes me appreciate the class Kaju Dog did on trauma care at camp.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on March 02, 2012, 05:33:30 PM
Amen on the prayers for the tornado stricken folks.

Gratitude for a fine workout all to myself this morning.

Gratitude for getting to watch my son train this afternoon.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on March 06, 2012, 09:51:55 PM
Prayers for several people in trouble in my life. Not dangerous trouble, but trouble nonetheless.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on March 07, 2012, 05:41:32 AM
Gratitude for a wonderful night last night with my family.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on March 20, 2012, 10:03:07 AM
Gratitude for the birth of a new dream today.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: jcordova on March 20, 2012, 03:13:54 PM
Grateful my daughter is doing better after three days of being sick.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: jcordova on April 08, 2012, 07:25:17 AM
Grateful to have celebrated my oldest daughter's birth day at Medieval Times and at Disneyland this past Friday and Saturday.  We sure had a blast.  :-D
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on April 08, 2012, 07:31:45 AM
Grateful to my Cousin Terry for a great Passover Seder last night-- my first in decades.

Greetings and blessings to our Christian friends for Easter.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Hello Kitty on April 16, 2012, 04:17:07 AM
Grateful for a good interview and grateful to be back in the States for some training time with NoHo.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Hello Kitty on April 16, 2012, 09:28:48 AM
Grateful for seeing the movie 127 Hours. It is so much the way I live my life. I have so much to fix. Hindsight is always 20/20. :/
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on April 26, 2012, 03:54:14 PM
I'm a high school teacher, so I measure years in terms of the academic calendar.

The 2011-2012, year has gone much differently for me than I predicted it would. I'm profoundly grateful for it (even though it's not quite over) but it's been a challenging year, filled with a lot of growth.

I have been off the grid for a little while in terms of the forums. I may be gone for a little while longer still, but I am not leaving for good. I hope everyone had a good April.

GD
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on April 27, 2012, 01:29:04 AM
Grateful for a wonderful trip so far.  Even more grateful that I will be returning to my family in a few days!


Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on May 12, 2012, 11:30:09 AM
Grateful for a silly morning with my kids, and the wife.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on May 13, 2012, 12:43:49 PM
Grateful for my wife, and my mother. Happy Mother's Day to all.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Tom Stillman on May 13, 2012, 05:43:18 PM
Grateful for being able to keep a sense of humor even in the darkest times. I thank my mom for that! God rest her soul. Happy Mothers Day! 
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on May 16, 2012, 10:48:02 AM
Grateful to have a small matter over and done with.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on May 16, 2012, 02:00:34 PM
Grateful to have this thread to remind me to be grateful.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on May 17, 2012, 03:54:44 PM
Grateful for one of the nicest letters I have ever received.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on May 19, 2012, 02:43:52 PM
My wife is suffering from a minor medical matter today. I'm grateful it is minor.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on May 20, 2012, 01:33:25 PM
Grateful for an idea.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Poidog on May 20, 2012, 06:51:43 PM
I know you're wicked busy, but we missed you this weekend, brother.  Much aloha.

-Poi
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on May 21, 2012, 09:05:20 AM
Quote
I know you're wicked busy, but we missed you this weekend, brother.  Much aloha.

-Poi

Poi,

I missed all of you, too. This has been a major teaching period in my life since September. My own training has suffered a bit. I am taking steps to correct that.

Had I planned to fight, my wife had a minor medical matter this weekend (she's fine) that would have kept me home both days anyway. Sorry for the Governator quote, but I'll be back.

GD

Today, I'm grateful to be involved with DBMA.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on May 22, 2012, 08:11:38 AM
Grateful for endings.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: bigdog on May 22, 2012, 09:37:01 AM
GD, best of luck for a quick and complete recovery for your wife!
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on May 22, 2012, 01:03:04 PM
Thank you, BD. She's doing fine, and pretty much recovered. It was not a very fun weekend, but we're on to the next week  :-D
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: bigdog on May 22, 2012, 01:26:16 PM
Great news, GD.  I look forward to hearing of great things!  I'd love to chat about your "major teaching period" at some point, too!
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on May 29, 2012, 11:46:41 AM
Grateful for a full day of teaching material I truly love.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on May 31, 2012, 07:54:52 AM
Grateful to wish May of 2012 goodbye. I always say that in the traditional academic year, everyday in May feels like Thursday (you're almost done, but not quite). While the first few weeks slowed, the remainder went quickly.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on June 01, 2012, 08:52:03 AM
Grateful to greet June.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on June 01, 2012, 08:00:16 PM
Gratitude for watching my daughter play recorder tonight as part of a chorus at school.  She has been practicing vigorously for several weeks now and did very, very well.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: jcordova on June 02, 2012, 08:35:23 AM
Grateful that both of my daughters got good grades at school.  :-D :-D
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on June 02, 2012, 08:37:35 PM
Grateful for some training today to pass a section of a licensing exam for which there are practically NO study materials.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on June 04, 2012, 05:42:25 PM
Grateful for a nice, simple resolution to a minor matter.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on June 05, 2012, 11:37:03 AM
Prayers for steadiness in a small matter.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Kaju Dog on June 06, 2012, 12:21:44 PM
Woof woof Tribe and friends.  Im working though some tough times right now but appreciate the attempts to communicate.  Im not one to talk much as those that have been around me can verify.  This too shall pass... It has to.

I think of you all often.

Respectfully yours,
Dean / KD
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on June 06, 2012, 01:49:39 PM
KD:

Thank you for checking in.  It is very good to hear from you.

The Adventure continues!
CD
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: jcordova on June 06, 2012, 05:25:25 PM
Grateful to have friends that check in for one's well being. 
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on June 08, 2012, 07:54:49 AM
Grateful for my wife's tender, loving care.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: DDF on June 08, 2012, 10:56:10 AM
Grateful to hear from KD and for being able to fight. I learned much.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on June 13, 2012, 02:44:17 PM
Grateful to hear from KD.
Grateful for some time with my kids.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on June 17, 2012, 11:44:04 AM
Profoundly grateful to be the father of my children.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on June 21, 2012, 02:24:36 PM
Picked up a little extra curriculum design work for my school district. While it was intellectually engrossing (I finished yesterday), I'm grateful to have some real time off to spend with my family.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: jcordova on June 25, 2012, 08:45:46 AM
Grateful to be alive, than you JESUS!  :-D
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on June 25, 2012, 11:55:40 AM
Grateful for the summer.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on July 04, 2012, 09:34:43 AM
Grateful for my country.

However, naive it may read, I pray that one day America will be less divided, and more united in excellence. If we are to remain at the perpetual 50/50 divide that seems to plague us, I pray Americans will find the path back to civil discourse, and truly celebrating the fact that we have the right to a difference of opinion, rather than using those differences to liken friends, family, and neighbors to Hitler if they have the audacity to disagree with our POV.

Happy Independence Day to all of those celebrating.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on July 04, 2012, 07:10:31 PM
God bless America!
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: DDF on July 05, 2012, 12:08:00 PM
Profundly grateful for the guidance I recieve from EACH of you, for the success of an interview that would not have been possible without your guidance, and for the proof that the martial arts can effect change. I will never shame you. Thank you.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on July 09, 2012, 11:41:35 AM
Prayers for a particular result.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on July 10, 2012, 12:14:19 PM
Grateful for progress on a problem.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: DDF on July 10, 2012, 12:29:15 PM
It´s official. I´m in. Grateful.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: c - Shadow Dog on July 10, 2012, 06:03:48 PM
DDF---WOOF, proud of you.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on July 12, 2012, 06:39:49 AM
Grateful for passing a test of some importance.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on July 20, 2012, 11:09:49 AM
Prayers for those injured/killed in Colorado.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on July 22, 2012, 04:41:40 PM
Grateful for a wonderful first day on a project.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on July 26, 2012, 02:54:47 PM
Grateful for possibilities.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on July 27, 2012, 03:40:33 PM
Grateful to be reminded that in martial arts, I have made true friends. Even if I only see those friends a few times a year, I m grateful that they are out there.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Kaju Dog on July 29, 2012, 11:44:14 PM
Grateful for the Brotherhood of the Tribe and the support you've shown me.  Looking forward to the future and trying to maintain a PMA.   Hope to see most of you in September ;-)
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on July 30, 2012, 05:01:59 PM
We love ya man!
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Kaju Dog on July 30, 2012, 08:38:49 PM
We love ya man!


Semper Fidelis Fortis Cruentis Dog Brothers
;)
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Kaju Dog on August 06, 2012, 04:59:42 PM
Grateful for a nice day w the family at the Base pool. 
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: jcordova on August 13, 2012, 02:44:29 PM
Grateful to have vistied my brother and friend Kaju Dog. Had a great time with good stories.  WOOf!!
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on August 20, 2012, 03:57:22 AM
Grateful for a wonderful week here in Bern, the training, an outstanding DB Gg of the Pack, and my good friend Benji/Lonely Dog.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on August 20, 2012, 01:58:07 PM
Grateful for the approaching routine and order of the 2012-2013 year.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: DougMacG on August 21, 2012, 11:22:12 AM
Grateful for seat belt, airbag and guard rail all in good working order.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on August 22, 2012, 07:01:07 PM
Grateful for a glimpse at some the pieces of a puzzle in my life right now.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on August 23, 2012, 04:13:32 PM
Sometimes, when life is busy, or hard, it's easy to lose sight of where you are at. I was watching some DBMA DVD's last night, and it occurred to me how much GC, Top Dog, Ajarn Salty, Pappy Dog (Now Tuhon Pappy as I read on FB :-D), Guro Lonely, the original DB's, the fighters from the early days before the DB's were the DB's, and many more truly pioneered and paved the way for what we have today.

I was simply sitting on my living room floor, watching the DVD with my family all around me asleep on the sofas in the room, when I realized just how lucky I am to be a DB. Externally, it was just a short guy sitting on the floor, watching the TV. Internally, it was a PROFOUNDLY deep moment of pride and gratitude to be associated with such amazing people.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on August 25, 2012, 06:41:47 PM
Grateful for a new avenue of personal development.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on August 26, 2012, 08:06:39 AM
Profoundly grateful for my children this morning. Yes, since I became a dad, I have less time to devote to being a deadly stick fighter. Frankly, since I became a dad, I have less time for everything. Anyone who tells you that having kids is 100% smooth sailing is lying. Sometimes, my kids are like cigarettes; they are shaving minutes/years off of my life. However, all of that stuff you hear about being fulfilled by being a parent is true. It's nothing to take lightly, though. Becoming a full DB, passing my Thai Boxing Association instructor's test, and earning a doctorate were all WAY easier than being a good father.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on August 29, 2012, 07:20:55 AM
Grateful for movement on several planes.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on August 30, 2012, 01:10:33 PM
Grateful to finish a task yesterday.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on August 31, 2012, 03:32:00 PM
Grateful for the possibility of relief in one life area.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on September 04, 2012, 08:13:04 AM
Grateful to know I will meet a deadline.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Kaju Dog on September 04, 2012, 09:12:45 AM
Grateful for GD keeping this thread alive. Grateful the clock's still ticking.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: jcordova on September 04, 2012, 09:59:54 AM
Grateful to have had the day off on Labor Day and spent time with my family :-)
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on September 05, 2012, 09:22:47 AM
Quote
Grateful for GD keeping this thread alive. Grateful the clock's still ticking.

Good to hear from you, KD. I miss you, Brother!

Grateful for a training session last night that taxed me.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on September 06, 2012, 07:56:35 AM
Grateful to have met some nice, new potential students last night.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: danicasdad on September 07, 2012, 11:20:04 PM
Grateful for a body that heals and shows me new strength everyday.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on September 12, 2012, 04:58:42 AM
Grateful to have had some painkillers in the medicine cabinet yesterday morning , , ,
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: jcordova on September 12, 2012, 09:43:13 AM
Grateful that my lower back is doing much better and have less pain  :-)
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Kaju Dog on September 25, 2012, 10:31:28 PM
Grateful for the love and support I get from the Tribe, future Tribal members and Kajukenbo brothers.

Grateful for a loving wife and kids. 

Praying for the strength to be there for all of you if and whenever you call on me for help.


Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Kaju Dog on September 28, 2012, 07:23:46 PM
Grateful to finally get the keys to our first home.   That was close...  Didn't want to hit 40 without ever buying a home for my family.   Now begins a new adventure ;)
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on September 29, 2012, 03:55:47 AM
Amen.
 8-)
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Dr Dog on September 29, 2012, 07:07:01 AM
Grateful to finally get the keys to our first home.   That was close...  Didn't want to hit 40 without ever buying a home for my family.   Now begins a new adventure ;)


Congratulations, and you are correct about the new adventure, particularly if you are the DIY type. Never a dull moment, always something to fix but it's different when it's yours.  Glad to hear things are going well.

Woof!

C Dr Dog
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: bigdog on September 29, 2012, 07:24:37 PM
Grateful to finally get the keys to our first home.   That was close...  Didn't want to hit 40 without ever buying a home for my family.   Now begins a new adventure ;)


Congratulations Kaju. I hope your home becomes filled with many wonderful memories.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: PRFSYS on September 30, 2012, 01:01:59 PM
I am truly grateful to have found this site where I can not only participate in Martial Arts discussions but also read and talk about so any other   topics. Thank you all for being here.

Paul F.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on September 30, 2012, 01:27:02 PM
Thank you Paul for letting us know that we matter.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on October 02, 2012, 10:00:33 AM
Congrats on your home, Kaju.

Grateful for surviving my first cold of the academic year. I stayed home yesterday feeling dreadful. Today, I am back at work feeling pleasantly disconnected from my body, and the last medication I took was over 14 hours ago.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Kaju Dog on October 03, 2012, 08:41:39 AM
Gratful for back braces. Knee braces. TENNS device. Pppain meds. Bolsters and water.   :mrgreen:

cannot forget my Teeter inversion table. hot pad and cold gel packs
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Kaju Dog on October 03, 2012, 11:36:23 AM
Grateful for a prior Navy NCO "Hooking up" my dish TV network  :wink: :mrgreen:
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on October 04, 2012, 08:02:26 AM
I have lost the ability to speak above a whisper. I am grateful that I got through teaching last night in my garage before my voice gave out, and that this has happened to me before and I know I can get through the work day with Power Point and body language.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Stickgrappler on October 04, 2012, 01:12:37 PM
Speedy recovery Kaju Dog and Guide Dog!


----------


Grateful clients sent in necessary paperwork before the deadline.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Kaju Dog on October 07, 2012, 02:48:21 PM
Thanks again SG. 

Grateful for my brother in arms and future Dog Brother, Jason Laird for helping a brother out today .  Many hands make lite work.  but the right hand makes em all work smarter.  Thank you Jason. 

ps
thanks to Pretty Kitty,  he went home w his DBs bumper sticker ;)

Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Stickgrappler on October 11, 2012, 06:57:09 AM
I haven't posted regularly on this thread, sometimes I believe if I talk about something, it may jinx things.

2 days ago - coworker (from different area) fainted in the ladies room.

another coworker (who works in our area) found her unconcious and rushed out and called 911

we don't know the woman as she is in a different area. EMT/firefighters and police showed up and took her to hospital yesterday

yesterday found out she passed away :(

didn't want to pry, clueless on details other than she was 40 yrs old.



RIP





please make sure you tell your loved ones you love them today and every day. we don't know when it's time.

last night, got home and told my family about what happened... i told them i loved them individually and hugged them. thankful for my family and health.

Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on October 11, 2012, 07:09:36 AM
Amen.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: jcordova on October 11, 2012, 08:54:06 AM
Grateful that everyday God gives me the oppiortunity I tell my wife and two daughters that I love them before I leave to work and after I come back safely.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on October 13, 2012, 12:22:13 PM
I'm grateful a particularly challenging portion of the academic year has already passed.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: DDF on October 18, 2012, 12:19:59 PM
Work has been going very well. SEDENA lost my original documents that I need to present for the test for my CUIP. Praying I can get it sorted in two days.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on October 20, 2012, 10:43:28 AM
Grateful for some renewal.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: PRFSYS on October 20, 2012, 08:57:53 PM
I'm grateful for another fine day training with Eric T. & the guys down in Colorado Springs and a fabulous sunset on the way home.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on October 21, 2012, 06:37:24 AM
Grateful for a chance to audition today for a movie.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Kaju Dog on October 21, 2012, 07:24:43 PM
Grateful to be a home owner and almost done with the move. 

Grateful for the strength to be a able to somehow keep up with my better half.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on October 21, 2012, 10:41:12 PM
Moves are a very big deal on many levels.  The Adventure continues!
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on October 23, 2012, 07:39:25 AM
Prayers that I get the work for which I am interviewing today.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: jcordova on October 23, 2012, 10:02:45 AM
Grateful to enjoy another day of life.   :-D
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: DDF on October 24, 2012, 08:55:45 PM
Grateful for the info and this morning's conversation with one of them at work. Grateful for the guidance I get here.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on October 29, 2012, 09:56:44 AM
My son tripped last night and cut his scalp fairly deeply. I'm grateful that while he needed four staples last night, today he is acting like he feels just fine.

Also, prayers for my friends on the east coast. I hope you are safe, any damage that comes your way is minor.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Kaju Dog on October 29, 2012, 07:35:23 PM
My son tripped last night and cut his scalp fairly deeply. I'm grateful that while he needed four staples last night, today he is acting like he feels just fine.

Also, prayers for my friends on the east coast. I hope you are safe, any damage that comes your way is minor.
Grateful GD s son is solid like his father :)

Chaz got 4 a few years ago , his hair grew back... eventually ;)

Grateful my wife is smiling more these days.  14 years ago Wednesday , she gave into my charms .  Been together since 95.

Loving her more each day :*
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on October 30, 2012, 02:51:52 PM
Prayers for the place of my birth and my youth:

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2225108/Hurricane-Sandy-2012-Obama-declares-major-disaster-New-York-39-people-die-Superstorm.html
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: DDF on October 31, 2012, 06:42:07 PM
Is some place, far away, reaching for a star. Hard to work so hard for something, to risk one's life for it, to even kill for it if necessary, knowing that at any minute, it could all collapse.
You have to REALLY believe in yourself and what you are doing. And the worst part is even if you really are the best, something decades ago could topple it all in an instant.
I hate my past. I hate not knowing. Even to me, saying that I showed up and did my best is just chickenshit. There is no try. There are only "did," and "did not." God, I hope I "did." Please. I don't ask for so much You know.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: jcordova on November 04, 2012, 09:01:02 AM
Grateful for a for another beautiful day of training at the park. :-D
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on November 05, 2012, 03:16:50 PM
Grateful something is almost finished.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on November 06, 2012, 09:51:33 PM
Grateful to have a newe friend from Brazil in town for a month of training.  We are having a very good time.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on November 07, 2012, 07:59:25 AM
Grateful for a pretty darn good "draft" of a project.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Kaju Dog on November 09, 2012, 08:56:13 PM
grateful for the gifts received today , esspecially the gift of joy and pride. 

An early howl of respect for all VETERANS and their loved ones. 

Its gonna be a tough weekend.

Survivors Never Forget the cost of freedom .
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on November 10, 2012, 04:44:43 AM
Amen!
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Stickgrappler on November 11, 2012, 08:26:55 PM
My deepest gratitude for:

Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on November 12, 2012, 10:47:18 AM
My deepest gratitude for our Veterans.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on November 13, 2012, 07:45:10 AM
Grateful for the current week.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on November 14, 2012, 09:40:54 PM
Grateful for anyone who approaches a teacher with an authentic hunger for knowledge.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Stickgrappler on November 15, 2012, 07:03:23 AM
Grateful I finished a good book and began what should be a good book
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Stickgrappler on November 16, 2012, 07:52:04 AM
Prayers to my coworker's family. 

He passed away yesterday. He was my age give it take - I'm 47. His kids are my kids ages. Hits home
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Stickgrappler on November 18, 2012, 04:41:02 PM
Grateful for the huge turnout for my coworker's funeral today as well as hear stories about his personal life
Title: Two from the WSJ
Post by: Crafty_Dog on November 22, 2012, 07:32:27 AM
The WSJ has published these two every Thanksgiving for a very long time:
=-


Here beginneth the chronicle of those memorable circumstances of the year 1620, as recorded by Nathaniel Morton , keeper of the records of Plymouth Colony, based on the account of William Bradford , sometime governor thereof:

So they left that goodly and pleasant city of Leyden, which had been their resting-place for above eleven years, but they knew that they were pilgrims and strangers here below, and looked not much on these things, but lifted up their eyes to Heaven, their dearest country, where God hath prepared for them a city (Heb. XI, 16), and therein quieted their spirits.

When they came to Delfs-Haven they found the ship and all things ready, and such of their friends as could not come with them followed after them, and sundry came from Amsterdam to see them shipt, and to take their leaves of them. One night was spent with little sleep with the most, but with friendly entertainment and Christian discourse, and other real expressions of true Christian love.
 
The next day they went on board, and their friends with them, where truly doleful was the sight of that sad and mournful parting, to hear what sighs and sobs and prayers did sound amongst them; what tears did gush from every eye, and pithy speeches pierced each other's heart, that sundry of the Dutch strangers that stood on the Key as spectators could not refrain from tears. But the tide (which stays for no man) calling them away, that were thus loath to depart, their Reverend Pastor, falling down on his knees, and they all with him, with watery cheeks commended them with the most fervent prayers unto the Lord and His blessing; and then with mutual embraces and many tears they took their leaves one of another, which proved to be the last leave to many of them.
Being now passed the vast ocean, and a sea of troubles before them in expectations, they had now no friends to welcome them, no inns to entertain or refresh them, no houses, or much less towns, to repair unto to seek for succour; and for the season it was winter, and they that know the winters of the country know them to be sharp and violent, subject to cruel and fierce storms, dangerous to travel to known places, much more to search unknown coasts.

Besides, what could they see but a hideous and desolate wilderness, full of wilde beasts and wilde men? and what multitudes of them there were, they then knew not: for which way soever they turned their eyes (save upward to Heaven) they could have but little solace or content in respect of any outward object; for summer being ended, all things stand in appearance with a weatherbeaten face, and the whole country, full of woods and thickets, represented a wild and savage hew.
If they looked behind them, there was a mighty ocean which they had passed, and was now as a main bar or gulph to separate them from all the civil parts of the world.

Anyone whose labors take him into the far reaches of the country, as ours lately have done, is bound to mark how the years have made the land grow fruitful.
This is indeed a big country, a rich country, in a way no array of figures can measure and so in a way past belief of those who have not seen it. Even those who journey through its Northeastern complex, into the Southern lands, across the central plains and to its Western slopes can only glimpse a measure of the bounty of America.

And a traveler cannot but be struck on his journey by the thought that this country, one day, can be even greater. America, though many know it not, is one of the great underdeveloped countries of the world; what it reaches for exceeds by far what it has grasped.
So the visitor returns thankful for much of what he has seen, and, in spite of everything, an optimist about what his country might be. Yet the visitor, if he is to make an honest report, must also note the air of unease that hangs everywhere.
For the traveler, as travelers have been always, is as much questioned as questioning. And for all the abundance he sees, he finds the questions put to him ask where men may repair for succor from the troubles that beset them.
His countrymen cannot forget the savage face of war. Too often they have been asked to fight in strange and distant places, for no clear purpose they could see and for no accomplishment they can measure. Their spirits are not quieted by the thought that the good and pleasant bounty that surrounds them can be destroyed in an instant by a single bomb. Yet they find no escape, for their survival and comfort now depend on unpredictable strangers in far-off corners of the globe.

How can they turn from melancholy when at home they see young arrayed against old, black against white, neighbor against neighbor, so that they stand in peril of social discord. Or not despair when they see that the cities and countryside are in need of repair, yet find themselves threatened by scarcities of the resources that sustain their way of life. Or when, in the face of these challenges, they turn for leadership to men in high places—only to find those men as frail as any others.
So sometimes the traveler is asked whence will come their succor. What is to preserve their abundance, or even their civility? How can they pass on to their children a nation as strong and free as the one they inherited from their forefathers? How is their country to endure these cruel storms that beset it from without and from within?
Of course the stranger cannot quiet their spirits. For it is true that everywhere men turn their eyes today much of the world has a truly wild and savage hue. No man, if he be truthful, can say that the specter of war is banished. Nor can he say that when men or communities are put upon their own resources they are sure of solace; nor be sure that men of diverse kinds and diverse views can live peaceably together in a time of troubles.
But we can all remind ourselves that the richness of this country was not born in the resources of the earth, though they be plentiful, but in the men that took its measure. For that reminder is everywhere—in the cities, towns, farms, roads, factories, homes, hospitals, schools that spread everywhere over that wilderness.

We can remind ourselves that for all our social discord we yet remain the longest enduring society of free men governing themselves without benefit of kings or dictators. Being so, we are the marvel and the mystery of the world, for that enduring liberty is no less a blessing than the abundance of the earth.
And we might remind ourselves also, that if those men setting out from Delftshaven had been daunted by the troubles they saw around them, then we could not this autumn be thankful for a fair land.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on November 22, 2012, 10:33:37 AM
A beautiful selection, GC.

Grateful for a LARGE gathering of family for Thanksgiving that will take place at my home for the first time in my life. How blessed and humbled I am to be an adult with a young family of my own, and a home in which to host the day.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on November 22, 2012, 11:08:22 AM
Whoops! I see I forgot to post the second piece:

Here beginneth the chronicle of those memorable circumstances of the year 1620, as recorded by Nathaniel Morton , keeper of the records of Plymouth Colony, based on the account of William Bradford , sometime governor thereof:
So they left that goodly and pleasant city of Leyden, which had been their r
esting-place for above eleven years, but they knew that they were pilgrims and strangers here below, and looked not much on these things, but lifted up their eyes to Heaven, their dearest country, where God hath prepared for them a city (Heb. XI, 16), and therein quieted their spirits.
 
When they came to Delfs-Haven they found the ship and all things ready, and such of their friends as could not come with them followed after them, and sundry came from Amsterdam to see them shipt, and to take their leaves of them. One night was spent with little sleep with the most, but with friendly entertainment and Christian discourse, and other real expressions of true Christian love.

 The next day they went on board, and their friends with them, where truly doleful was the sight of that sad and mournful parting, to hear what sighs and sobs and prayers did sound amongst them; what tears did gush from every eye, and pithy speeches pierced each other's heart, that sundry of the Dutch strangers that stood on the Key as spectators could not refrain from tears. But the tide (which stays for no man) calling them away, that were thus loath to depart, their Reverend Pastor, falling down on his knees, and they all with him, with watery cheeks commended them with the most fervent prayers unto the Lord and His blessing; and then with mutual embraces and many tears they took their leaves one of another, which proved to be the last leave to many of them.
 
Being now passed the vast ocean, and a sea of troubles before them in expectations, they had now no friends to welcome them, no inns to entertain or refresh them, no houses, or much less towns, to repair unto to seek for succour; and for the season it was winter, and they that know the winters of the country know them to be sharp and violent, subject to cruel and fierce storms, dangerous to travel to known places, much more to search unknown coasts.
 
Besides, what could they see but a hideous and desolate wilderness, full of wilde beasts and wilde men? and what multitudes of them there were, they then knew not: for which way soever they turned their eyes (save upward to Heaven) they could have but little solace or content in respect of any outward object; for summer being ended, all things stand in appearance with a weatherbeaten face, and the whole country, full of woods and thickets, represented a wild and savage hew.
 
If they looked behind them, there was a mighty ocean which they had passed, and was now as a main bar or gulph to separate them from all the civil parts of the world.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Kaju Dog on November 22, 2012, 09:58:15 PM
A beautiful selection, GC.

Grateful for a LARGE gathering of family for Thanksgiving that will take place at my home for the first time in my life. How blessed and humbled I am to be an adult with a young family of my own, and a home in which to host the day.

Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on November 24, 2012, 01:12:13 PM
Grateful for a wonderful Thanksgiving Holiday. Due to some family dynamics, we had two separate dinners. I am happily fasting today!
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on November 27, 2012, 07:38:55 AM
Grateful for getting what feels like enough sleep.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on November 28, 2012, 09:42:43 PM
Grateful that my little garage group has started gaining some momentum.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on November 30, 2012, 04:00:25 PM
Grateful to have the rock that is martial arts in my life.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: jcordova on November 30, 2012, 05:21:01 PM
Grarteful that more brothers in LE are willing to learn self defense.  And I am most grateful to teach them the little that I know.   :-D
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on December 01, 2012, 04:53:07 PM
Grateful for my wife.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on December 07, 2012, 01:43:08 PM
http://www.allprodad.com/top10/inspirational/10-ways-to-find-purpose/
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on December 12, 2012, 07:57:26 AM
Grateful to have completed a minor task.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Kaju Dog on January 04, 2013, 03:15:47 PM
Gratful for my teacher, mentor and the last 23 years he has been there for me.  Praying for anlother 23 +

Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on January 04, 2013, 09:07:00 PM
I see I haven't been here for nearly one month, but I am indeed grateful for so very much, beginning first with my family and then with my mad, merry adventures in martial arts.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: jcordova on January 06, 2013, 01:08:13 PM
Grateful to have had two weeks vacations and spent the time with my family.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on January 07, 2013, 11:25:52 AM
Grateful for a wonderful week of vacation in Europe with my wife. Now back to training!
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on January 08, 2013, 12:34:22 PM
Grateful for routine.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on January 09, 2013, 03:13:39 PM
Grateful for a visit yesterday from my friend Rigan Machado.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on January 10, 2013, 05:38:51 PM
Grateful for the sense of being a member of a LARGE, multi-faceted community that comes from involvement in the martial arts.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Kaju Dog on January 10, 2013, 07:47:30 PM
Thankful to have a patient student and for his tenacity.  I have my art...once again :)
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on January 11, 2013, 08:09:09 AM
Kaju,

Quote
I have my art...once again

Reading that sentence makes me very happy; I'm grateful you wrote that.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on January 25, 2013, 03:55:31 PM
Grateful for my students, my instructors (legends), my mentors/instructors in around my age range, and an emergent set of martial arts contemporaries in my life: people who I either teach in one context and train with in another, or people I teach who know just as much as I do in other areas.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on January 30, 2013, 08:04:18 AM
Grateful for a much better perspective than I had yesterday.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on January 30, 2013, 08:06:09 AM
Grateful for a busy schedule, for some new ideas in training, for my children, for my wife.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on January 31, 2013, 06:10:30 PM
Grateful for an uneventful day (in a good way).
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: DDF on February 11, 2013, 10:42:41 PM
Grateful for GM playing me a James Bond video when poking fun at me two years ago, and for people that talk behind other people's backs.  I'm still not cool. :mrgreen:
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on February 12, 2013, 07:51:30 AM
I'm grateful for an opportunity.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on February 15, 2013, 06:56:42 AM
Grateful for a wonderful Valentine's Day with my wife, grateful for this coming weekend's Adventure at the Second Annual Canadian Gathering of the Pack.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: dan151 on March 31, 2013, 03:48:07 PM
Today I am grateful  for the chance to spend time with my dog Zeus.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on April 04, 2013, 05:14:08 PM
Grateful for this day!
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Kaju Dog on April 08, 2013, 12:18:41 PM
This day April 8, 1986, I earned my White belt.  A day I am truely grateful for. 

27 yrs  :-o   24 of those years and counting with GM Harper "Kajupit"  :mrgreen:


Woof,
KD



Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: jcordova on April 14, 2013, 01:07:30 PM
Grateful to have woken up to a beautiful day.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on April 15, 2013, 06:08:29 AM
A prayer for wisdom in dealing with a difficult situation.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: jcordova on April 19, 2013, 12:14:49 PM
Grateful to have received the news from our family Dr that my wife is pregnant.  I'll be a daddy again :-D
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: bigdog on April 19, 2013, 02:29:25 PM
Grateful for a promising professional challenge.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on April 19, 2013, 08:22:03 PM
Congrats JC!  8-) 8-) 8-)

Grateful for the quality police work in Boston.  Well done!
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on April 20, 2013, 09:35:56 AM
Congrats on embarking on the journey again, JC!

Quote
Grateful for the quality police work in Boston.  Well done!

I am grateful for the same.

I have been away from these boards for a while, but I would like to start posting on here a bit more regularly again.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on April 21, 2013, 04:23:48 PM
Glad to have you back GD.

Greatful for a fine weekend teaching for DBMA GL Kevin Keane.

We had several Secret Service agents in attendance and other LEOs too.

The them of the weekend was weaponry movements (Kalimba Game, Dracula Fang, Bolo Game, and Prison Sewing Machine-push and poke variation) to empty hand (Kali Tudo) to DLO.


Good times!
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on April 22, 2013, 05:33:11 PM
Grateful for a short nap.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on April 26, 2013, 08:12:07 AM
Grateful to finish one of two weeks of state testing at the high school at which I teach; this week actually shaped up to be quite fun.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on April 28, 2013, 03:44:29 PM
Grateful for a fine weekend here at Camp Williams UT with 19th Group.  Gratitude to Tuhon Jared Wihongi of the Pekiti Tirsia Tactical Ass'n for his part in putting it together.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on May 12, 2013, 11:54:46 AM
Grateful for my wonderful mom!
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: DDF on May 28, 2013, 08:15:39 PM
I would like to thank everyone for the many things I have learned here, good and bad. I don't know if I will be fighting in gatherings anymore, but I want to say that many here have propelled me to the career that I am in now, one which many have no experience in. I am completely grateful for those of you that helped me make it.
DDF
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on May 28, 2013, 08:34:12 PM
TAC!
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on June 10, 2013, 01:03:45 PM
Grateful for a great last few days of training with many friends (old and new) and wth some of my instructors.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on June 17, 2013, 05:12:39 PM
Grateful to be HOME!!!
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: jcordova on June 18, 2013, 12:52:14 PM
Grateful for the love and joy that I have for my family.   :-)
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on June 21, 2013, 10:23:34 PM
Grateful for two of my martial arts students who have come back recently and really poured their hearts and souls into training. They will be testing for rank next week. I am very proud of them.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: jcordova on July 02, 2013, 10:29:19 AM
Grateful to God to have given me another year of life.  Turning 41 today and being blessed too that my family is in good health and spirits.   :-)
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on July 06, 2013, 11:51:18 AM
Grateful to have DBMA in my life.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on July 11, 2013, 09:54:51 PM
Grateful to have come to a place where what I perceived to be a MAJOR problem that was severely affecting my sense of self-worth can now be seen as an exciting opportunity, and that is NOT me "making lemonade" out of the lemons I felt I was being handed. TAC!
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on July 12, 2013, 12:19:58 PM
Grateful for the joys of family time in summer!
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: jcordova on July 14, 2013, 01:39:40 PM
Grateful to have TWINKIES back. Bought two boxes to enjoy.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on July 15, 2013, 10:17:31 AM
Prayers for my mother-in-law, who goes in for minor surgery today.  All should be well, but prayers nonetheless.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: jcordova on July 29, 2013, 01:45:08 PM
Grateful to have found out today that the baby my wife is expcting is a boy.  A future Dog Brother!  Can't be more happier :-D
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: G M on July 29, 2013, 01:47:59 PM
Grateful to have found out today that the baby my wife is expcting is a boy.  A future Dog Brother!  Can't be more happier :-D

Congrats!
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on July 29, 2013, 04:14:34 PM
Another Adventure begins!
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: jcordova on July 29, 2013, 08:57:22 PM
Thank you GM :-D
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on August 03, 2013, 10:38:41 AM
Grateful for wonderful time with my family.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Karunamama on August 05, 2013, 08:02:54 AM
Grateful for a very fun week in the LA area training with Crafty and having fun with the family.  Also grateful that nothing essential was packed in our check-in luggage, which still hasn't caught up with us.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on August 05, 2013, 08:09:21 AM
My pleasure and gratitude as well  :-)
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: DougMacG on November 11, 2013, 09:24:19 AM
Happy Veterans Day to those who earned that distinction.

In my business, veterans can start at the front of the line - every day of the year.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on December 25, 2013, 05:14:00 PM
Once upon a time there was a man who worked very hard just to keep food on the table for his family.

This particular year a few days before Christmas he punished his little five-year old daughter after learning that she had used up the family’s only roll of expensive gold wrapping paper.

As money was tight, he became even more upset when on Christmas Eve he saw that the child had used all the expensive gold paper to decorate one shoebox she had put under the Christmas tree. He also was concerned about where she had gotten the money to buy what was in the shoebox.

Nevertheless, the next morning the little girl, filled with excitement, brought the gift box to her father and said, “This is for you, Daddy!”
As he opened the box, the father was embarrassed by his earlier overreaction, now regretting how he had punished her.

But when he opened the shoebox, he found it was empty and again his anger flared. “Don’t you know, young lady,” he said harshly, “when you give someone a present, there is supposed to be something inside the package!”

The little girl looked up at him with sad tears rolling from her eyes and whispered: “Daddy, it’s not empty. I blew kisses until it was full.”

The father was crushed. He fell on his knees and put his arms around his precious little girl. He begged her to forgive him for his unnecessary anger.
An accident took the life of the child only a short time later. It is told that the father kept this little gold box by his bed for all the years of his life. Whenever he was discouraged or faced difficult problems, he would open the box, take out an imaginary kiss, and remember the love of this beautiful child who had put it there.

In a very real sense, each of us has been given an invisible golden box filled with unconditional love and kisses from our children, family, friends, and God. There is no more precious possession anyone could hold.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: jcordova on December 29, 2013, 02:22:59 PM
Grateful that my newborn son and wife are doing fine.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on February 11, 2014, 04:55:43 PM
Just back from seeing the orthopedist about my shoulder. I have been cleared for beginning restrengthening and apart from a pronounced bone protrusion, the prognosis is good. I am grateful.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Stickgrappler on March 19, 2014, 06:17:16 PM
Grateful for Pretty Kitty's help when I had forum login challenges
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: jcordova on April 09, 2014, 01:06:14 PM
Grateul that my back surgery was a success.  No more pain on my leg.. :-D
 
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on April 23, 2014, 12:18:40 AM
Grateful for what I think is that path I will be on for some time.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on April 25, 2014, 10:29:04 PM
My son turned seven yesterday. I am grateful for everything being a dad has brought to my life.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on April 28, 2014, 11:33:40 PM
Grateful for some news. Hopeful the news manifests in the manner in which it was presented.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on April 30, 2014, 01:42:24 PM
In terms of the 2013-2014 academic year, I will be grateful to see May tomorrow.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on May 02, 2014, 10:17:34 PM
Here today on FB I ran across a poster that someone had put on their page that went something like this:

"If God only gives us troubles he thinks I can handle, then he must think I am a real bad-ass!"

Totally turned my day around! I think I may continue to use this one-- my gratitude to whomever posted it.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on May 07, 2014, 09:37:51 AM
Grateful for the clearing of a path.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on May 08, 2014, 08:57:59 PM
Grateful for forward momentum.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: bigdog on May 09, 2014, 06:54:40 AM
Woof Guide Dog: I love seeing you post again here! I will hope that your momentum continues.

I am grateful for the close of the busiest academic year of my career. I am grateful for the opportunities that the summer holds. I am grateful for the students who taught me much and who are graduating. And I am grateful for the time to pursue my art.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on May 09, 2014, 02:34:19 PM
Redefining the Past   Iyar 9, 5774 • May 9, 2014
Based on letters and talks of the Rebbe, Rabbi M. M. Schneerson

Nothing can hold you back—not your childhood, not the history of a lifetime, not even the very last moment before now. In a moment you can abandon your past. And once abandoned, you can redefine it.

If the past was a ring of futility, let it become a wheel of yearning that drives you forward. If the past was a brick wall, let it become a dam to unleash your power.
The very first step of change is so powerful, the boundaries of time fall aside. In one bittersweet moment, the sting of the past is dissolved and its honey salvaged.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on May 09, 2014, 08:47:23 PM
Grateful for training time with Guro Inosanto and my extended martial arts family.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on May 13, 2014, 09:14:37 AM
Quote
Woof Guide Dog: I love seeing you post again here! I will hope that your momentum continues.

Thank you, BD. My path is set; my momentum survives  :-)

I'm grateful to be moving through May at a good pace.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on May 14, 2014, 10:47:47 PM
Grateful to wake up very much on the right side of the bed this morning.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on May 16, 2014, 12:30:24 PM
Grateful for progress in a number of areas.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on May 16, 2014, 07:51:11 PM
Simple minds, simple pleasures. Grateful for a wonderful nap.
Title: Re: Prayer for Victor Davis Hanson
Post by: DougMacG on November 18, 2014, 09:17:57 PM
Saddened to learn that the daughter of Victor Davis Hanson, author, educator, columnist, died on November 13 after a short illness.
Susannah Merry Hanson was 27.
http://pjmedia.com/tatler/2014/11/18/please-keep-victor-davis-hanson-in-your-thoughts-and-prayers/
http://victorhanson.com/wordpress/?p=8014

Title: Re: Prayer for Victor Davis Hanson
Post by: G M on November 18, 2014, 09:34:36 PM
Saddened to learn that the daughter of Victor Davis Hanson, author, educator, columnist, died on November 13 after a short illness.
Susannah Merry Hanson was 27.
http://pjmedia.com/tatler/2014/11/18/please-keep-victor-davis-hanson-in-your-thoughts-and-prayers/
http://victorhanson.com/wordpress/?p=8014



Tragic. VDH is one of the great writers/thinkers of our time. So sad to hear of this loss.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on November 19, 2014, 10:36:05 AM
The thought of losing a child sends tremors through the heart of any parent.  I admire VDH's work greatly; may he find God's grace in this hour of tragedy.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude,
Post by: DougMacG on December 24, 2014, 11:23:57 PM
Merry Christmas, Peace and Good Tidings, everyone!   :-)
http://www.pbs.org/program/christmas-norway-st-olaf-choir/
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on December 25, 2014, 10:07:10 AM
Amen.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on February 07, 2015, 07:43:14 AM
I'm grateful to see this thread is still kicking around.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on February 09, 2015, 10:21:27 AM
And grateful that you started it!  As can be seen by the number of reads, this is one of our most popular threads and its meme has spread to the DBMA Ass'n fourm as well.  Thank you for your post here this morning-- it reminds me to post here as well as on the thread on the Ass'n's forum.

Amongst many things, I am grateful for another beautiful day in LA.   From the feel of the morning I would say that it looks like we are headed to another 80 degree day today.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: danicasdad on June 21, 2015, 10:30:23 PM
Grateful for my children's good health and safety.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on June 21, 2015, 11:02:21 PM
Profoundly grateful to be the father of my two children!
Title: Prayers go out to former Pres. Jimmy Carter
Post by: DougMacG on August 31, 2015, 03:38:13 PM
I have been hard on him for being a failed President but unlike many politicians, he actually is and was a good man and deserves all of the best for health and comfort in these difficult times.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on August 31, 2015, 06:45:12 PM
Amen.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on September 28, 2015, 11:59:24 AM
Swam out to the buoy and back again this morning.

The water temperature has dropped this past week from 76 to 74, which still is pretty darn reasonable for the final days of September!

As I was approaching the wave line at the beach I was passed by a pod of five dolphins-- truly magnificent, and truly I am blessed!!!

A man could go further and do worse! The Adventure continues!!!
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: DDF on January 28, 2016, 02:10:08 PM
I just want you all to know, that though we may not agree politically at times, often through my own misunderstanding, that you all have taught me something, that I am grateful, and that you each had no small part in changing my life.

I would not be where I am at today, without the teachings of any of you.

Thank you for that, because by myself, I was damned.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on January 28, 2016, 04:19:07 PM
WWWOOOFFF!!!
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Kaju Dog on March 14, 2016, 07:36:25 PM
WOW!!!  What a GREAT DAY of Arts and Crafts in Fresno, California. (20160313)

There are many photos and a bit of video footage coming soon.  See them first on the DBMAA Gallery in the near future.

WADR,
KD
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on March 15, 2016, 07:52:44 AM
A wonderful day for me as well Kaju.

Looking forward to the photos and the footage.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on March 31, 2016, 10:07:07 PM
Grateful to see figurative light on several fronts when it felt like there was only darkness for SOME time.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on April 03, 2016, 02:05:06 PM
Grateful to have started off the morning believing I was sick with a cold, but now that I am up and about, feeling ready to start the week ahead!
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on April 05, 2016, 08:27:59 PM
Grateful to alleviate some stress by gaining information today.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on April 06, 2016, 03:17:34 PM
Grateful to be heading to the Euro DB Gathering tomorrow evening.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: DDF on August 10, 2016, 09:58:47 AM
Grateful for a letter of recommendation from a Mexican, two star general.

For as much as we disagree here, I would have never gotten here if if were not for the Tribe.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on August 17, 2016, 04:09:26 PM
Grateful to be headed to the Euro Tribal DB Gathering tomorrow evening.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: DDF on September 17, 2016, 02:36:38 PM
Grateful to start law school today, in a country that leans Socialist (not so thrilled with that), that leans towards globalism (likewise), and in a foreign language. Still, I remain grateful.

Also wishing everyone that will fight at the Tribal tomorrow, all the best.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on September 17, 2016, 07:48:50 PM
!La Aventura continua!
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: DDF on September 30, 2016, 12:08:53 PM
Praying the letter I just sent to Governor Jerry Brown is well received and brings about its intended purposes.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on October 17, 2016, 06:21:50 PM
TAC!!!
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on November 07, 2019, 11:41:35 PM
Wonderful night at the Inosanto Academy tonight.  Then had dinner with Guro afterwards.

I am blessed.
Title: Thanksgiving and a small Expression of Gratitude
Post by: DougMacG on November 25, 2020, 06:42:03 PM
2020 was a strange year (so far) full of danger, disappointment and setbacks, but still I am  thankful to be alive and healthy and doing well.

In the under 65 age group, I faced a 0.00018  chance of dying this year due to covid and so far have avoided that.

Contrast this Thanksgiving with the Pilgrims who faced real danger. 45 of 102 Mayflower passengers died in the winter of 1620–21.

We are (mostly) fortunate to live in amazingly prosperous times, and I am thankful for the good health of family in this challenging year.
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Guide Dog on May 19, 2022, 12:27:16 PM
Grateful that while I have been away from these forums for some time, this thread which was started by yours truly in 2008 (humble flex) , is not dead!

I've been an absent Guide Dog, but I'm going to start showing myself again. Have a great day, everyone!
Title: Re: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude
Post by: Crafty_Dog on May 20, 2022, 09:39:50 AM
And we are grateful to have you back!