“First the man, then the Saint” is an age-old saying that refers to the vital importance of forming ourselves as people, as a basis upon which everything else sits. So I’m trying to do that, sharing my journey of personal growth and self-mastery here in short daily reflections.
Neuroplasticity
"Neuroplasticity is the ability of the brain, no matter the physical age, to change throughout our entire lifetimes. We aren't hardwired. Stop excusing bad attitudes, habits, and behaviors by saying, 'I'm just wired that way.' You are not." - Andrew D. Whitman, Seven...
The Hard Days
There are days when motivation is high, and things seem easy. I feel ready to take on the world. Then there are days, like today, when it all seemed dry, empty, pointless, and futile. Well "buckle up, buttercup;" THESE are the GLORY days! These are the days, when it's...
A house in order
Jordan Peterson once said: “Set your house in perfect order before you criticize the world.” I think he’s absolutely right, and I don’t think he’s talking only about a physical structure. To me it hearkens back to the words of Our Lord: “Let he among you who is...
New Beginnings
I got up when I said I would, and the first thing I did was pray. I want to make prayer the first item of my daily schedule, and reconquest the discipline of intentionally putting God first in my day and in my life so that his love and grace can be the basis upon...
The Pledge
This year I pledge to do my utmost to form myself into a man every day. Exercise, kindness, discipline, prayer, music, balance. To reforge my roots as a basis for my future, to be the best husband, father, brother, friend, and colleague possible. To stand for what is...