Do you want to understand more about yourself?  Ask yourself these:

Am I open to feedback and willing to embrace new ideas?
Am I being objective and facing reality squarely?
Am I living an illusionary life?
Am I really empowering others?
Am I fearful or fearless?
Am I egotistical or positively confident?
Am I carrying a lot of baggage of the past?
 
Asking pertinent questions will bring some insights into your life.  Perhaps you might break through some of the things that hold you back!

The truth as we see it is not really the truth. The truth that we see is the one we create in our thoughts.

Some days, you are usually handed some waiting time. One can actually capitalize this time by reading, making important phone calls or if possible, working out (walking, light jogging, stretching).

It was my mum's 77th birthday so I took her and my dad for prayers and lunch. My son Tawfiq had an Coastal Cup award ceremony in the afternoon and I took him there.

I had few deadlines to meet today and was running way behind.

The time spent with my parents and my son actually gave me some time to reflect. This brought clarity and allowed me to complete my assignment with relative ease and I managed to meet my deadlines by the evening.

The key learning for me was not to panic when you get a little behind.

Most people live busy lives amidst many demands, noise and deadlines. Also with enormous information available at our finger tips, the mind is always consumed.

Many factors will challenge your goals and aspirations. Doubt will find a way to creep in from the back door. You are constantly challenged as to whether you have the wherewithal to carry through especially if you have, as Jack Canfield calls them,  'big hairy audacious goals'.

If your children are safe; you are in good health; and there is love in your family - you are gifted and blessed!

This holiday season, take a moment to think about the gifts that you have received this year and be grateful that some of life's greatest joys and miracles are indeed ours for the taking.  Let's be thankful for the bounty we have in our midst.

In Canada, we observe Remembrance Day on November 11th to honour the people who gave up their lives to bring peace to our wonderful country.

I cannot think of a bigger sacrifice then giving up your life so your countrymen can live in peace. It is a heroic act of selflessness and exhibition of the power of giving.

We are all in some way or other standing on the shoulders of others and have benefited by their action.

Last week, I had the opportunity to speak to some 700 teachers at an event organized by the Learning Disability Association in Vancouver. Their mission is to provide community-based programs; raise public awareness; promote early identification and remediation in children with learning disabilities; and to pursue collaborative efforts that will directly enhance the quality of life of people with learning disabilities and their families.

Cherish every moment and all the blessings you have. Even when life throws you obstacles and insurmountable challenges, shift focus to parts of your life that are right. By focusing on what is right, you expand your positive feelings giving you a better perspective on the challenges that lie ahead.