Fundamentals first before fun!

by Richard L. Weaver II

For all of my professional life I have either taught or written about fundamentals, and I have always believed that the establishment, understanding, and proper use of the fundamentals (of any sport, subject, or area) is essential to effectiveness. Throughout this period of time there have been students who do not learn the fundamentals and attempt to “wing it.” This is not an unusual response when you consider the pressures students are under.

The responses some students had to learning and using the fundamentals were not unlike many people in society. They want to win the lottery! They would rather invest their money (and little time) in shooting for the big, lucky, immediate payoff in giving a speech rather than investing time in learning and effectively using the fundamentals which might guarantee them success in giving a speech. It is, indeed, a fast-food, quick-grab, gut-level approach.

This essay is a justification and rationale for spending the time and energy necessary (no matter the sport, subject, or area) to learn fundamentals first before fun.

In his book, The Art of Learning (Free Press, 2007), Josh Waitzkin, an eight-time National Chess Champion writes in his introduction, “A chess student must initially become immersed in the fundamentals in order to have any potential to reach a high level of skill” (p. xvii). Waitzkin, from his own experience, talks about the importance of learning the principles even “integrate more and more principles into a sense of flow” so that “Eventually the foundation is so deeply internalized that it is no longer consciously considered, but is lived” (p. xvii).

Just as strong chess players rarely speak of the fundamentals, great speakers seldom single out and identify all the building blocks of their mastery. Waitzkin writes that “a great pianist or violinist does not think about individual notes, but hits them all perfectly in a virtuoso performance. In fact,” Waitzkin writes, “thinking about a ‘C’ while playing Beethoven’s 5th Symphony could be a real hitch because the flow might be lost” (p. svii).

Rae Pica, the author of A Running Start (Marlowe & Company, 2006), opens her essay entitled, “Fundamentals First,” by asking three questions, “Would you hand a child calculus problems once she was able to count to ten? A geometry text when he began to recognize shapes? War and Peace as soon as she could recite her ABCs? Of course not!” Pica adds, in the very next paragraph, “Yet all too many children are enrolled in gymnastics, karate, dance classes, and organized sports before they’ve mastered such basic movements as bending and stretching, walking with correct posture, and bouncing and catching a ball.” Fundamentals first before fun!

Although these two authors make a case for learning the fundamentals first — and both their cases make good sense — they offer little additional evidence about the value of learning fundamentals first. When I lectured to students, I made the case for learning the fundamentals. Here are ten reasons for fundamentals first before fun.

First, building a solid foundation is an obvious justification. If the base is strong and solid, whatever follows is likely to be capable, skillful, and impressive. With a foundation in place, speakers now have a clear base of operations, starting point, or place from which to begin work.

Second, learning fundamentals opens alternatives and options. Often, proceeding without the basics leaves people on their own, with only what they know or have experienced. Knowing fundamentals is like, the more you know, the more you find out. Using fundamentals increases choices and makes both success and effectiveness (often, one and the same) more likely.

Third, and closely related to number two, having internalized the fundamentals, the possibility for creativity grows. Creativity is more likely stimulated — prompted, encouraged, activated, triggered, nourished, and inspired — with an increase in the number of stimuli available.

Fourth, learning fundamentals offers strength. If fundamentals are truly what they are said to be, and if they are understood, internalized, and used, the results of depending upon them should not just be what can be expected, but results should be what you cannot anticipate as well. The sum (final result) becomes greater than the sum of the (basic) parts. Sometimes results surprise!

Fifth, learning and depending on the fundamentals fulfills expectations. It is easy to say, “that is precisely what I want to avoid — satisfying expectations.” Speeches, speakers, and speech occasions are centuries old. Because of that, listeners know what they want and expect. Not to fulfill or acknowledge their expectations may be a road to disappointment and defeat.

Sixth, having fundamentals as your base supplies the license, permission, or authority to act. To teach in a public school in many states requires a teaching permit; some jobs require a high-school diploma; driving requires a driver’s license; although there is no entry gate nor authority checking accomplishments, having the fundamentals is like possessing the credentials that grant the freedom to act — the freedom to rise above the ordinary!

Seventh, learning the fundamentals gives speakers confidence and security. Speakers with that base know they are proceeding in a recognized and acceptable manner. It is an effective “can do” approach that both motivates and excites.

Eighth, fundamentals offer a base from which experimentation can proceed. You study form to leave form. It establishes a base for asking questions, encouraging thought, and prompting a deeper and more comprehensive understanding.

The ninth reason for learning fundamentals is that it offers a way to evaluate outcomes and assess results. When you have fundamentals as a base, you have a structured and systematic way to evaluate strengths and weaknesses after the fact.

The tenth and final reason for understanding and using fundamentals, is that it is a way to penetrate and understand “greatness.” “Greatness” occurs as a result of following or deviating from the basics. Only when you understand those basics, do you have standards by which to gain insight into how you can, or how others do, achieve “greatness.”

Fundamentals offer a base for enjoyment. Although following basics can be fun, the freedom that occurs with that foundation in place may be even more pleasurable for the creativity, imagination, and artistry that is released, but don’t skip the basics: fundamentals first before fun!

Contact Richard L. Weaver II

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And Then Some: Essays to Entertain, Motivate, & Inspire - Book 1

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And Then Some News

Thanks to everyone who has bought And Then Some Book 1: Essays to Entertain, Motivate, & Inspire. I would like to say a special "Thanks" to Tom, Joe, Casey, Sarah, and Michelle. They bought the first five books!

This is a grassroots, word of mouth, talking about the book style of campaign. Campaign?!? Oh, not another one! We say, "And Then Some". Read the book. We want everyone to "get it".

Psst!... So far, word on the street... the book is pretty darn good! Tom Thiel, aka "Clutch" had an interesting point, "There are a lot of comma's." Whether you call it author Richard L. Weaver II's 'style' or his prerogative, if that's the worst... you better get the book! (Amazon.com)

And Then Some Saturday Essays - Saturday October 20, 2007
Leadership is not a bag of tricks - It depends on values, vision, and communication

Excerpt:
Vision is difficult to cultivate. It comes, for example, from a strong belief that things don’t have to be this way. It comes from a vague desire to do something that will challenge yourself and others. It comes from a sense of determination. It forces you to clarify what it is that you really want to do. With a vision, you get a sense of what you want your target to look like, feel like, and be like when you and others have completed the journey. Having a vision affects your attitude, your optimism, and your beliefs. Your beliefs will sustain you through difficult times. Vision requires both commitment and endurance, and when you have a vision you don’t see difficulties in every opportunity but, rather, opportunities in every difficulty.

And Then Some... We can't wait to see you on Saturday!!

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Self-discipline can change your life in any way you want it to

And Then Some Saturday Essay by Richard L. Weaver II

Self-discipline can change your life in any way you want it to

During my early years, I heard from my parents about the Puritan work ethic, but every time I heard the phrase it was connected with working hard. Never did I know that it was a biblically based teaching on the necessity of hard work, perfection, and the goodness of labor.

Only when I was in college and pursued research on New England preachers, did I realize that it was protestant preachers who preached on the goodness and the necessity of labor for its effect on humans, of course, but more broadly, for its effect on Christian society.

Although the term was coined by Max Weber, the phrase “Puritan work ethic” was part of 1800s American culture, and it was seen by some Americans as one of the cornerstones of national prosperity. The Puritans may have personally defined it by saying, “I am to be honest, hard working, reliable, sober, mindful of the future, appropriate in my relationships, successful, and thereby give glory to God,” but, I am certain my parents used it strictly as a motivational tool: “You’ve got to work hard son, if you want to make anything of your life.”

Perhaps it was the philosophy or maybe it was just good genes, but I was never one to shy away from hard work. I have always thought of self-discipline as the ability to get yourself to take action regardless of your emotional state, and I have come to use the words “self-discipline” in place of the Puritan work ethic, because I want to be in control of my life. In my mind, it is exactly as William Feather said: “If we don’t discipline ourselves, the world will do it for us.” Self-discipline puts the control in our own hands.

Now we know that self-discipline can be a stronger predictor of success than IQ (Psychological Science, Vol. 16:12 (December 2005), p. 939).

Just as I was told that the Puritan work ethic was a vital characteristic of successful people, I make the same claim for self-discipline. To face the challenges and problems along the path to success and achievement, you have to persevere and be strong. It is self-discipline that helps you control your actions and stay on track.

It doesn’t take much reading or observation to acknowledge lack of self-discipline. Problems such as being overweight, procrastinating, debt, poor relationships, excessive stress, poor work performance, laziness, smoking, drinking, lack of exercise, negative habits, poor appearance, and many others can be traced to our tendency to justify our words, actions, and behaviors. Self-discipline along with passion and planning can wipe out these problems. Within the domain of problems it can solve, it is unmatched. Although the problems we face and the methods we use to deal with them will vary, the underlying solution remains the same.

Self-discipline affects your confidence, because being in control will boost your confidence and esteem. It affects how you see yourself, because your self image will be better when you know you can succeed and change. It affects your ability to see projects through, allows you to stay focused, and it can change your life in any way you want it to.
Self-discipline is like a muscle. The more you train it, the stronger you become; the less you train it, the weaker you become. Just as most people have weak muscles compared with how strong they could become with training, most people are weak in their level of self-discipline.

There is an old story about a man who went to a tattooist because he had always wanted a tattoo of a lion on his back. The tattooist started to sketch the tail into the man’s torso: “Ouch! What are you doing?” asked the man. “I’m doing the lion’s tail” replied the tattooist. “Well then for goodness sake let’s have a lion without a tail!” said the man, wincing in pain.

Next the artist set about on the Lion’s whiskers. “Ouch!” cried the man, “What’s that?” “The whiskers!” said the tattooist, getting increasingly irritated. “Well let’s have a lion without whiskers!” moaned his customer.

The tattooist then set about doing the Lion’s back. “No that hurts too!” shouted the man. At this, the tattooist finally lost his patience with the man’s lack of self-discipline. Throwing down his tools and the man out of his shop, he shouted, “How can you expect to get what you want without a little discomfort?”

You become handicapped when you base your decisions purely on your comfort level? It is too easy to have a wishbone where your backbone should be. It was Beverly Sills, the opera singer, who said, “There are no short cuts to any place worth going.”

The more you use your muscles, the stronger they get. It is the exercised muscle that lifts the weight. Mastering self-discipline can be learned, and with it you can accomplish anything. Without it, nothing worthwhile or lasting can be achieved.

If you want greater self-discipline, start exercising your self-discipline muscles. How? Work first, then play. When doing something new, resist the fear of being a “phony”; as you improve, the feeling lessens. Keep company with disciplined people; often, we imitate those with whom we associate. Tolerate discomfort gracefully. Take advantage of high-energy moods, knowing they won’t last. Imitate those you admire. Divide large tasks into smaller ones. Take risks knowing that life without them is safe but boring. Practice your new skills and exercising on and off all day, if not physically, at least mentally. Often, mental rehearsal can be as good as physical as long as it is directed and purposeful. Finally, sleep on important decisions knowing that it prevents impulsive actions.

If you tend to be undisciplined, use the little discipline you have to build more. The more disciplined you become, the easier life gets. Challenges once impossible will seem like child’s play as you learn new skills, overcome difficulty and hardships, and improve your life. Because we are what we repeatedly do, self-discipline will not be an act, but a habit.

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© Copyright 2007. All rights reserved worldwide by Richard L. Weaver II and And Then Some Publishing, L.L.C.

No part of this essay, except in brief quotations embodied in reviews, may be used or reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form by any means, photocopying, electronic, mechanical, recording, or otherwise, without the prior written permission of Richard L. Weaver II or the publisher, And Then Some Publishing, L.L.C.---or, in the case of photocopying, electronic duplication, or other reproductive copying, a license from the United States Copyright Licensing Agency---is an infringement on the copyright law. The best way to obtain copies of the essays is to purchase the book And Then Some - Book I: Essays to Entertain, Motivate, and Inspire (And Then Some Publishing, 2007).

The Core of the "AND THEN SOME" Philosophy Part 2

Part 2 of 2 in our series: The Core of the "And Then Some" philosophy

Richard L. Weaver II

“Do as I say, not as I do,” is an old-fashioned expression, and the “And Then Some” philosophy would be an easy one to preach and not follow. That has not been the case in my life, and that was not the case when I first wrote about And Then Some more than twenty years ago. And Then Some probably represents, better than anything else I can think of, the very epitome of what it means to be a human being, and it comes close to having faith in something greater than or beyond ourselves—faith based upon the interpretation of the intangible instead of the physically tangible.

The faith associated with And Then Some is that associated with trust—believing that the results of a choice you have made will act in specific ways despite the potential influence of known or unknown change. It is to have faith that the results of your current decisions will in some way intensify, heighten, magnify, strengthen, augment, and enrich you in the future. And Then Some is a belief that your choices will result in a future that will be improved over the present with which you are familiar now—belief in and trust of your abilities, based on everything you know right now, to make decisions that will raise, lift, and elevate your life.

Although And Then Some can and does work in small ways everyday of our lives—especially as we interact with friends and family members—the big ways you see And Then Some work can be crucial, weighty, and extraordinary for the way it sculptures lives. I have eight of those “big ways” that have so altered the pathways of my life, they have molded me into what I am (have become) today.

The first way in which And Then Some dramatically altered my life was my decision to take college seriously, stop rebelling against my parents, apply myself, study hard, and do well. Had I not adjusted my attitude, dug in my heels, and added And Then Some, I would have been without a University of Michigan education and without direction and purpose—adrift.

The second And Then Some application, closely related to the first, was my change in major from pre-medicine to speech. I have written about it often only because of the effect it had on my life. This belief in And Then Some underscores the importance of pursuing what feels right for you, what fulfills you, and what is your passion. There are no precise, explicit, or clear-cut directions or guidelines to help you make these life-altering decisions. You must trust your abilities and instincts, and reach out in faith.

The And Then Some application that occurred third, in chronological order, is my marriage. This application was made more dramatic by a newspaper headline that read, “Marking 25 years of marriage proving more elusive” (The Toledo Blade, September 21, 2007, p. 8A). The story, attributed to the New York Times, begins, “More than half the Americans who might have celebrated their 25th wedding anniversaries since 2000 were divorced, separated, or widowed before reaching that milestone....” My wife and I have been happily married more than 40 years, and I consider her my friend, supporter, encourager, and number-one fan.

My choice to go to Indiana University and study with Dr. Robert Gunderson was my fourth And Then Some application. It changed my life by forcing me to become a better writer, adding greater discipline and control to my behavior, and, in the end, granting me the Ph.D. I needed to credential me for a future as professor and disciplinary writer. For a secure future in higher education, a Ph.D. is not a choice; it is essential.

A fifth And Then Some application was my agreement to write the textbook Communicating Effectively with Saundra Hybels who asked me to be her co-author just four years out of graduate school. That textbook had its first two editions (under another title) with Van Nostrand publishers, the next two with Random House, and the remaining seven with McGraw-Hill—for a total of eleven editions. It not only launched a career of writing textbooks and scholarly articles, but it yielded the credibility, self-confidence, and authority needed to do a wide variety of other writing as well—for example, speeches and essays.

The decision to go to Bowling Green State University to teach was a sixth And Then Some application. Because of the size of the change from teaching small classes at the University of Massachusetts and the move to directing a large, basic, required course utilizing graduate teaching assistants who had to be trained, as well as weekly lecturing to 1500 undergraduate students, this And Then Some decision presented a momentous opportunity and yet, for me, an earth-shaking challenge. This pivotal decision in my life had the And Then Some benefit or propelling me through the remaining 22 years of my teaching career, but facing it required a critical evaluation of my experience, skills, and abilities: was I even capable of raising my performance to this new level?

My seventh And Then Some application was the choice to write Saturday essays for The (Toledo) Blade. Why was this an And Then Some moment? First, it is risky for a writer to surrender to the decision of a gatekeeper, newspaper editor for possible publication of his work. Second, it is risky for a writer to compete with other local authorities (educators, lawyers, doctors, deans, pastors, and civil authorities) for publication. Third, it is risky for a writer to put aspects of his personal life out into the public for examination, review, and comment. That decision has had the And Then Some benefit of writing well over 200 essays and providing a stimulating, challenging, enjoyable life.

The eighth And Then Some application occurred with the decision to leave teaching to depend entirely on writing for the remaining portion of my professional career. After teaching in a secure situation and environment for 31 years, taking early retirement to depend for income on the fickle profession of writing—even with the possibility that my textbook will be discontinued—was an And Then Some application that has resulted in close to a dozen years of delightful, challenging, self-sufficient entrepreneurship.

Daily And Then Some moments have never ceased, and will never cease, but with respect to influential, life-altering, high density, transforming events, nothing compares with the colossal And Then Some phenomena that become the benchmarks for reshaping a life and establishing a new pattern and approach. These eight And Then Some events offer the exemplar—textbook examples—for what And Then Some is all about and the faith you must have in your skills and abilities.

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© Copyright 2007. All rights reserved worldwide by Richard L. Weaver II and And Then Some Publishing, L.L.C.

No part of this essay, except in brief quotations embodied in reviews, may be used or reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form by any means, photocopying, electronic, mechanical, recording, or otherwise, without the prior written permission of Richard L. Weaver II or the publisher, And Then Some Publishing, L.L.C.---or, in the case of photocopying, electronic duplication, or other reproductive copying, a license from the United States Copyright Licensing Agency---is an infringement on the copyright law. The best way to obtain copies of the essays is to purchase the book And Then Some - Book I: Essays to Entertain, Motivate, and Inspire (And Then Some Publishing, 2007).

And Then Some News

And Then Some News - Thursday October 4th

And Then Some Book I: Essays to Entertain, Motivate, & Inspire is now available at Amazon.com!! The first book in a series containing fifty easy to read essays covering relationships, family, self-help, advice, writing, traveling, humor, speech communication, society, leadership, and education... all wrapped around the And Then Some philosophy. Click: Amazon.com and be one of the first to own a copy of And Then Some Book I!!

andthensomeworks.com has been updated! Check out our redesigned website with more from And Then Some Book I including Table of Contents, excerpts, and full essays. Visit our website often as we continue to add features and update the site regularly


And Then Some Saturday Essays - Saturday October 6, 2007
Part 2 of 2 in our series: The Core of the "And Then Some" philosophy
AND THEN SOME WORKS
by Richard L. Weaver II

Excerpt:
"Do as I say, not as I do," is an old-fashioned expression, and the “And Then Some” philosophy would be an easy one to preach and not follow. That has not been the case in my life, and that was not the case when I first wrote about And Then Some more than twenty years ago. And Then Some probably represents, better than anything else I can think of, the very epitome of what it means to be a human being, and it comes close to having faith in something greater than or beyond ourselves—faith based upon the interpretation of the intangible instead of the physically tangible.

And Then Some... We can't wait to see you on Saturday!!

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The Core of the "AND THEN SOME" Philosophy Part 1

Part 1 of 2 in our series: The Core of the "And Then Some" philosophy

Richard L. Weaver II

Both as a college student and as a college teacher I was always astounded at the number of students who would do what they needed to do to “get by” rather than go the extra mile. Going the extra mile (and then some) is simply doing more than you are asked or expected to do.

Often I attributed this to laziness, but in talking to students I discovered that there were a wide variety of causes. Some told me they were stretched too thin, or the course had little value to them. Some said college was simply a hurdle that needed jumping; others stated they were unwilling to give something for nothing. They had tried it before and found it a waste of their time. They could see no value in working harder, doing more, or giving greater effort.

I have discovered there is a great deal more to it than that. First, life is unpredictable, and it is impossible to see exactly what’s coming down the road next. You may think you are prescient (having knowledge of events before they take place), but nobody truly is. A belief in serendipity makes a great deal more sense: making fortunate discoveries when not in search of them. Second, it is impossible to predict how you will feel when faced with a new circumstance, new people, or new demands. Sometimes going the extra mile results in added insights, needed preparation, or the necessary knowledge that will help you deal. Third, it is impossible to gauge all the effects of what you do right now. Sometimes there are effects that can be seen, like smiles as a result of a good deed, clapping after a great speech or presentation, or “thank-yous” for gift giving. But going the extra mile in business or in your personal life may result in no immediate effects that can be seen.

Waiters go the extra mile to get bigger tips. Employees go the extra mile to get promoted. Businesses go the extra mile to get more customers. So, why should you go the extra mile? There are a number of reasons.

First, going the extra mile can make you stand out. Few people, unfortunately, are so motivated. Thus, going the extra mile can set you apart, reveal your conscientiousness, establish your reliability, or increase your value. Second, it is likely to bring out positive emotions in others. When positive emotions are connected either to you or something you did, it will cause others to both remember you and feel good about you. Third, it will help you move ahead of your competition and succeed where others fail. Fourth, and finally, it can bring personal rewards.

In one college course, I became so absorbed in the term project that I exceeded all the parameters of the assignment. I knew what the value of the project would be to me, and what I needed to know to help me, so, like the Energizer Bunny, I just kept going, and going, and going. It resulted in a grade of A+ in the course, but that was never the goal; it was simply an unintended, and unexpected reward for my excessiveness. I did the project and then some.

In another example of personal rewards, Kerrie Moreau, Ph.D. and research associate at the University of Colorado at Boulder, studied postmenopausal women and found that walking an extra two miles every day, in addition to the walking that the participants did as part of their normal daily routines, significantly lowered their blood pressure, regardless of diet. Moreau concluded saying “It gives you another lifestyle strategy to lower blood pressure instead of pharmacological intervention.” 50 million Americans have hypertension. Walk and then some.

Can you apply the “And Then Some” philosophy to others? Of course. When you borrow a pan or dish from a neighbor, show your appreciation for the loan by placing a goodie inside when you return it. When someone asks you for a piece of gum, give him or her the whole pack. When going for groceries, ask a neighbor if he or she is out of milk, needs a prescription picked up, or a loaf of bread. Give people an un-birthday treat—something that they had their eye on but wouldn’t pick up for themselves. Give thank-you notes to people for something they have done for you—even the small, often thankless, little courtesies.

Often, it is the small things—the little ways we have for showing respect and caring—that count the most in others’ lives. Run errands for a parent; take a friend out to dinner; call your existing customers just to make sure they are happy with their purchase; help a co-worker with their heavy workload; do a personal favor for an employee; say little things that will build others up. Do what is expected and then some.

But, too, you can be a model for the “And Then Some” philosophy. Going the extra mile in your own life is often revealed in a positive, optimistic, cheerful outlook. For example, people are more likely attracted to those who avoid swearing, vulgar language, and gossip. People, too, do not like to be talked down to. When you say nice things to others, give out compliments, help others when they are cranky, and tell the truth, you are showing others you are confident and self-assured. When you reveal the traits above, too, you show others you care about them. True, it is hard to do when you are in a bad mood, but by lifting the mood of others, you will lift your own as well. Set an example and then some.

You all know people who say if they paid them more, they would work harder. Or, if the world treated them better, they would be nicer. Or, if they went to nicer places, they would wear nicer clothes. Or, if they were in a better relationship, they would work harder at it. Or, if they were richer, they would give more. If, if, if, if.... You have also probably discovered that the situations are likely to be irrelevant, people who possess this kind of approach, use it no matter the circumstance. Work harder? Be nicer? Wear nicer clothes? Work harder at relationships? Give more? Not a chance.

The “And Then Some” philosophy is clearly revealed by people who work hard because they are a hard worker. They are nice because they are nice people. They believe that everything and everyone is special because that is the kind of person they are. They dress for the kind of person they are, not for where they are going. They give more because they are givers. And, they always do what they have to do and then some, because they follow the and then some philosophy knowing that it isn’t the key to the good life, it is the good life.

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© Copyright 2007. All rights reserved worldwide by Richard L. Weaver II and And Then Some Publishing, L.L.C.

No part of this essay, except in brief quotations embodied in reviews, may be used or reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form by any means, photocopying, electronic, mechanical, recording, or otherwise, without the prior written permission of Richard L. Weaver II or the publisher, And Then Some Publishing, L.L.C.---or, in the case of photocopying, electronic duplication, or other reproductive copying, a license from the United States Copyright Licensing Agency---is an infringement on the copyright law. The best way to obtain copies of the essays is to purchase the book /And Then Some - Book I: Essays to Entertain, Motivate, and Inspire/ (And Then Some Publishing, 2007).

Live life to the fullest!...

And Then Some Saturday Essay by Richard L. Weaver II

Essay #12 from And Then Some Book 1: Essays to Entertain, Motivate, and Inspire.

Live life to the fullest! Seize every minute of it, and never give that minute back until there is nothing left of it .

You often hear comments like “Sue has a passion for what she is doing,” or “Are you passionate about this issue?” And the reason you hear such responses is because people who pursue their passion in life tend to be powerful, positive, proactive, and purposeful.

Passion is an intense overpowering emotion. As I began college, mine was to go into medicine, until I had to take a required speech course. Those in the pre-med curriculum had no use for, interest in, or identification with this hurdle we had to jump to complete our coursework.

The assignments, activities, and enthusiasm of a dedicated and committed speech instructor hit a chord that changed my life. To follow my new passion—becoming a speech major—required taking more courses, being in college longer, and making major decisions that would affect the rest of my life. For me, this was a bold and risky move.

William James said, “Compared to what we ought to be, we are only half awake. We are making use of only a small part of our physical and mental resources.” When was the last time you did something bold? When was the last time you grabbed life by the tail and took a risk? When was the last time you turned down an opportunity to play it safe?

If you have been lucky enough to follow your true passion—utilizing the gifts and talents you’ve been given—you know what “being alive” means. Life is wonderful; life is exciting; and life is bringing rewards and opportunities you may never have dreamed of.

Making the right choices has valuable and worthwhile benefits. It generates tireless energy. It keeps you on track. It keeps you moving towards following your gifts and talents.

Finding your passion makes you look at life differently. There is a love there that motivates you to do the best you can and to learn as much as possible about your chosen field.

When you find and follow your passion, too, your life doesn’t seem wasted; your life has a meaning and purpose; and despite difficulties and adversities, you are optimistic, and you always know that what you’re doing is the “right thing.” Your passion comes from within, and you know it’s right.

How do you find your passion in life? Ask yourself, what’s the ultimate drive in your life? What do you get excited about? What do you love to talk about? When you talk about it, do you radiate with enthusiasm? If you were to announce to the world, “For me, living is . . . ,” with what would you fill in the blank?

The key ingredient to being passionate about life is—loving what you do. Just having a goal or a plan is not enough. Academic preparation is not enough. Prior experience is not enough. Passion and productivity are Siamese twins in these fast-paced times.

First, decide the kind of person you want to be—and do something today to make it true. The Air Force core values offer worthwhile standards: integrity first, service before self, and excellence in all you do.

Everyone can do better in some area of life. Take an inventory of your life and decide where to make positive changes then live that life.

Second, focus on what you want to give, rather than on what you want to get. Many people think backwards. They think happiness comes from having things instead of living a life of significance.

Instead of setting a goal of how much money you will make, set a goal for how much money you will give. Instead of setting a goal for attaining promotion, set a goal for what you could do to make yourself a more valuable member of society. The difference is a matter of focus.

Third, and finally, look for lasting significance in all you do:
• It may seem insignificant, but time spent with young people may result in a youngster hearing something life-changing.
• It may seem redundant, but sharing an insight, discovery, or perception with another may result in their increased knowledge or understanding.
• It may seem useless, but time invested with fellow workers, family, and friends is never wasted.

There are no throw-away moments. Every day matters. Look for the lasting significance in your work, your relationships, and your actions. Seize the day! Be a sponge for knowledge!

What is passion? Passion is the attitude of life that makes a person shine. It’s what people see that is special about a person when he or she walks into a room. Whatever you do in life should be done with the passion of a summer kiss, of a joke with multiple punch lines, of a brisk, refreshing walk.... Passion makes a difference.

In the late Erma Bombeck’s column “If I had my life to life over...?” she concludes, “There would have been more of ‘I love you...,’ more of ‘I’m sorry...,’ but mostly, given another shot at life, I would seize every minute of it. . . look at it and really see it . . . live it . . . and never give that minute back until there was nothing left of it.”

And what of the passion in my life having switched from pre-medicine to speech? It resulted in over 30 years in the college classroom and lecture halls, more than 30 college textbooks (counting all editions), 19 speeches published in Vital Speeches of the Day, 14 essays published in The (Toledo) Blade, and close to 100 published academic articles.

When you are aligned with what feels best for you, you create an inner sense of joy and happiness. Your actions are based on enthusiasm. The key is allowing yourself to feel joy and enthusiasm often and continually. Energy attracts energy. Suppressing your natural expression is to suffocate that energy that attracts abundance and prosperity. Live life to the fullest—seize every minute of it, and never give that minute back until there’s nothing left of it.
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© Copyright 2007. All rights reserved worldwide by Richard L. Weaver II and And Then Some Publishing, L.L.C.

No part of this essay, except in brief quotations embodied in reviews, may be used or reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form by any means, photocopying, electronic, mechanical, recording, or otherwise, without the prior written permission of Richard L. Weaver II or the publisher, And Then Some Publishing, L.L.C.---or, in the case of photocopying, electronic duplication, or other reproductive copying, a license from the United States Copyright Licensing Agency---is an infringement on the copyright law. The best way to obtain copies of the essays is to purchase the book /And Then Some - Book I: Essays to Entertain, Motivate, and Inspire/ (And Then Some Publishing, 2007).

Introducing Saturday Essays!

And Then Some News: Thursday September 20, 2007

David Shutt (dshutt@theblade.com, 419-724-6067) of the Toledo Blade informed us "For the time being, at least, I've decided to give Saturday Essay a rest ... It may be revived in time but every feature wears out after a while ... Thanks for your interest."

How do you take a negative: The extinction of Saturday Essays in the Toledo Blade, the basis of And Then Some Book 1 and in turn, what has lead us all the way here to this blog...

How do you turn this negative into a positive? Think And Then Some...

Introducing "And Then Some Saturday Essays" by Richard L. Weaver II

Every Saturday author Richard L. Weaver II will post an essay from the expansive And Then Some essay library or post an essay on a current theme of the day whether it be politics, religion, education, travel or just plain fun!

Essay Topic: Saturday September 22, 2007 - Live Life to the Fullest
Excerpt:
If you have been lucky enough to follow your true passion—utilizing the gifts and talents you’ve been given—you know what “being alive” means. Life is wonderful; life is exciting; and life is bringing rewards and opportunities you may never have dreamed of.
Making the right choices has valuable and worthwhile benefits. It generates tireless energy. It keeps you on track. It keeps you moving towards following your gifts and talents.
Finding your passion makes you look at life differently. There is a love there that motivates you to do the best you can and to learn as much as possible about your chosen field.
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And Then Some... We can't wait to see you on Saturday!!

andthensomeworks.com

The Toledo Blade ceases "Saturday Essays"

The decision to discontinue The (Toledo) Blade’s “Saturday Essay” has a direct effect on And Then Some Publishing, L.L.C.

Let me preface the following information and letters with a brief explanation. I have had 14 essays published in The (Toledo) Blade since February, 2004, and those essays form both the starting point and foundation for this book of essays. The history of when and how this connection to the Saturday essay feature occurred is discussed in the preface to And Then Some - Book I. When The (Toledo) Blade changed editorial directors (from Tom Walton to David Shutt) suddenly the Saturday Essay feature no longer appeared, so I wrote the following letter:

Dear Letters Editors,

With Tom Walton's retirement, has there been a change in policy regarding the nature of Saturday essays? Will you continue publishing Saturday essays from your local stock of area-wide writers? I guess the real question comes down to this: Should I send you any more essays that may have the potential of being published as a Saturday essay? Just curious.

The following is the reply I received from the new editorial director, Mr. David Shutt:

Mr. Weaver: For the time being, at least, I've decided to give Saturday Essay a rest ... It may be revived in time but every feature wears out after a while ... Thanks for your interest.

David Shutt
Editorial Director

I immediately sent Mr. Shutt a reply; however, most of the content of the letter I sent to him is contained in the following letter I wrote for possible publication in the “Readers Forum.” Because it objects to Mr. Shutt’s new policy (the discontinuance of the Saturday Essay feature), and asks for those who disagree with his policy to respond in some way, the letter may not be published; however, this is the letter I wrote:

Dear Letters Editor
At the risk of sounding self-serving, I want to call readers’ attention to an unannounced (to my knowledge) editorial change. I noted that in my experience the "Saturday Essay" feature is always looked forward to with enthusiasm and interest. It involves the community, always relates to topics of relevance and immediacy, and is written by credible members of the community who readers admire, respect, and hold in high esteem, this writer not withstanding. I told Mr. Shutt that I was under the exact opposite impression. Rather than thinking it had “worn out,” my thinking was that it had not only caught on, but it had become a feature of the paper that made Saturday issues prized possessions. I can’t begin to count the number of times and places I have seen Saturday essays posted for others to read and admire. I regret the decision to discontinue the Saturday Essay feature for personal reasons, of course, but I feel it deprives the reading public of a significant and essential source of information regarding issues of vital and, often, critical importance, that can be found nowhere else. I wonder how many readers of the Blade agree with Mr. Shutt's decision? Has the "Saturday Essay" worn out?

It is true that I have an emotional attachment to the Saturday Essay feature since it set things in motion for this (and future) compilations of my essays in the series of books, And Then Some: Essays to Entertain, Motivate, and Inspire. The (Toledo) Blade supplied the parameters for the essays in length, style, and approach. More than that, however, the Saturday Essay feature served as the impetus for the establishment of And Then Some Publishing, L.L.C. which is the publishing arm of as well as the driving force behind the creation of this website for which my son, ANT, is the webmaster. You can see why this change in editorial policy at The (Toledo) Blade had a direct effect on me and those who work at And Then Some Publishing, L.L. C. We would like to see it brought back—not just for us, but for the community service it has clearly served.

Contact David Shutt Editorial Director and help get The (Toledo) Blade "Saturday Essays" back!
DAVID SHUTT - dshutt@theblade.com ~ (419) 724-6067