When opportunity knocks ...

You must be ready to answer the door. In fact, I remember when Corey Ciocchetti came to Research College of Nursing for our fall convocation, he talked to us about being ready to accept opportunities. You can't wait to prepare yourself for opportunities that will come along ... prepare yourself now, so that 'when opportunity knocks' you can literally say "yes, I would be honored to do that" and be confident that you can; rather than having to turn down something truly great because the timing was bad or you just weren't in a position to take on what was offered.

For instance, this blog I write for Rockhurst University -- one person could say it's just a fun way to express myself and share my thoughts about what's happening in my world; someone else could say it's just freelance writing that doesn't have any major impact on anyone; yet, I say, this blog is "opportunity" continually knocking ... because from week to week and post to post you have no idea who is reading it, what they find interesting or relevant, and what ways they are planning to use your talent for writing. I can personally say that in the last month I've had two 'opportunities knock on my door' because of this blog. And because I have prepared myself through previous occupations and academic development, I was able to say, "yes, I would love to do that!"

It's a great feeling to see one part of your world manifests itself in so many other areas. It's gives this blog new life and meaning. It tells me that these are not just words written to blind eyes and deaf ears ... they are seeds that are being planted and the first fruits of the harvest have just begun to spring forth.

So here I am with laptop in hand, continuing to share with the hearts and minds who cross this path and read a line or two. It is my hope that something will catch your attention, inviting you in for a longer stay, and whispers to you to return again. One thing I can offer, I will be here continuing to live and love and share and breathe new life into this page of words.

It's so much more a part of me than I possibly will ever understand ... and it connects me to you in ways that I surrender to the infinite possibilites of "when opportunity knocks ..."

LJ

Showdown in the "Show Me" State

Missouri ...

From the City of Fountains to the Gateway Arch of St. Louis, it has been very clear during the 2008 Presidential election that Missouri is on the map! The candidates for the White House have made several stops in the "Show Me State" this year including the following:



The Show Me State Welcomes Senator Barack Obama

August 26, 2008, Senator Barack Obama watched his wife, Michelle, as she spoke at the Democratic National Convention. He watched from the living room of "the Girardeau family," a local Kansas City family.

The Show Me State Welcomes Governor Sarah Palin and Senator John McCain

Sept. 8, 2008, Govenor Sarah Palin and Senator John McCain spoke at a rally held at a retirement center in Lee's Summit, MO. Senator McCain said that they must win Missouri in order to win the White House. They also made a stop at Arthur Bryant's to enjoy some of Kansas City's fine barbecue.


The Show Me State Welcomes Mrs. Michelle Obama

Oct. 1, Mrs. Obama campaigned for her husband in the historic 18th & Vine district of downtown Kansas City. She was introduced by Congressman Emanuel Cleaver II and spoke to a crowd of over 3,000 people who lined the streets of about three city blocks. She also took a quick tour of the American Jazz Museum and Negro Leagues Baseball Museum.

The Show Me State Welcomes Senator Joe Biden

Oct. 8, the 2008 Vice Presidential candidates (Senator Joe Biden and Governor Sarah Palin) had their Showdown in the "Show Me" State. They met at Washington State University in St. Louis for their first and only debate before the election in November.

Thursday, Oct. 9, Senator Joe Biden made stops to speak at Missouri Western State University (St. Joseph, MO); William Jewell College (Liberty, MO); and a final speech at the capital of Missouri, Jefferson City.

Why have the Missouri voters received so much attention? Because Missouri stands by it's name ... the "Show Me State." If you show me a Presidential winner, I will show you someone who won the state of Missouri. Traditionally, Missouri has a trend of picking the presidential winner. In fact, according to an Associated Press article "only once in the past 100 years have Missourians favored the losing candidate."

Missouri voters ... if you are registered and cast your vote for the 2008 Presidential election, you can be certain that the country will be watching to see who takes home the "Show Me" state.

So do me a favor ... on November 4, get out and VOTE! Show Me who Missouri says is ready to lead our country as the next President of the United States of America.

Show Me! LJ