Jim Ballard – Making a memory

Posted on September 11, 2009 by moonbridgebooks

Jim Ballard, motivational speaker, life coach and author, posts the second in his series on memory. One of the missions of Cherry Blossom Memories blog is to encourage others to make good memories – and, yes, you can have a hand in creating good memories even out of bad or frustrating experiences.

Part 2: Making A Memory

Since memories are made of “what happened,” is it possible to “happen” one? Can we, at will, create a memorable moment? In order to purposely create a memory there are several things to remember.

Be mentally alert
Planning an event such as a special trip or party doesn’t guarantee a memory. How can we ensure that what happens will be “memorable?” If the “memory-ness” isn’t to be hit or miss, it’s necessary to be extra observant. Have the attitude, a memory could occur here at any moment – I mustn’t miss it.

Stay in the present
Memories occur in moments. Each memory is a unit of consciousness that was created in a single moment. Therefore, if we want to know how to create a memory, we must pay attention to the moments we’re in. In other words, live in present time.

So, soak in the essence of special moments, but if something goes awry look for the good in a situation as we all know the saying about clouds having silver linings, whether it be a good friend to the rescue, a bond being formed, daring to laugh instead of cry. Today is September 11, the anniversary of a horrifying tragedy. I choose to remember how our nation came together, how we gained new appreciation for our firemen and policemen, how we celebrated the lives of those lost. Be in the moment, look upward and forward.

Next week Jim will discuss “Living the Memory.” Visit Coach Jim’s blog for a dose of inspiration or Jim Ballard’s website for further information about him or to sign up for his newsletter.

Linda Austin
“Cherry Blossoms in Twilight”
http://www.moonbridgebooks.com
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Jim Ballard – What is a memory?

Posted on September 8, 2009 by moonbridgebooks


Jim Ballard is a nationally known life coach, a motivational speaker, and an author (Little Wave and Old Swell, Mind Like Water, and others). His fables challenge readers to manage their minds to generate joy by letting go of the whirlwinds of life. Jim’s blog, Coach Jim, offers encouragements for the day – a good day. Jim will be featured here in a 3-part series defining memory, making memory, and living memory. The word “memory” can be teased apart into strands that encompass more than just a factual occurrence.

Part 1: What is a Memory?

Before speaking of creating memories, what is it about a memory that would make us want more of them? When we recall a “precious” memory in a nostalgic way we’re doing more than just recollecting something, like what we had for breakfast. So, what is the difference between a memory and something merely recalled?

A memory has personal meaning.
A memory helps us remember something about ourselves that is notable. It may evoke a value, such as friendship, fun or travel. It may bring loved ones closer. It may call to mind an event that was special.

A memory evokes positive feeling.
What we call a memory is important because it makes us feel good. It may recall a special place or time, or it may bring tears because it touches the heart. It may recall a difficult time, but recreate the good feeling of having overcome odds.

A memory helps us define who we are.
It may even have the importance of what some call a defining moment. Recalling what we’ve achieved can help us face a present challenge. The memory of one who inspired us can do that again.

Stay tuned as later this week Jim discusses the interesting concept of creating good memories. Do we have control over our memories?

Linda Austin
“Cherry Blossoms in Twilight”
http://www.moonbridgebooks.com
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Superior Scribbler Award

Posted on September 2, 2009 by moonbridgebooks

Surprise! I have been honored to receive a Superior Scribbler Award from fellow life writing blogger Sharon Lippincott (The Heart and Craft of Life Writing). This award has been in the blogosphere since October 2008 when The Scholastic Scribe, a high school journalism teacher and blogger, thought to share bloggy love with other scribbly writers. It’s always nice to know others are reading and enjoying your scribbles, because sometimes you can’t tell. Thanks, Sharon! Now, as part of the requirements of accepting the award, I must pass on the Superior Scribbler Award to five other super bloggers, and here they are:

Lisa Yanucci’s Mama Lisa’s World of cultural fun and learning
Mitali Perkins’ Mitali’s Fire Escape of multicultural book chats and poetry
Vivian’s Hip Writer Mama manages her writing life with kids
Katia Novet Saint-Lot’s Scribbly Katia writing from India about the world
Ronni Bennett’s Time Goes By for those who like being older and wiser

Here are the rules for passing on the Superior Scribbler Award:

1. Each Superior Scribbler must in turn pass The Award on to 5 most-deserving Bloggy Friends.

2. Each Superior Scribbler must link to the author and the name of the blog from whom he/she has received the Award.

3. Each Superior Scribbler must display the Award on his/her blog, and link to this post, (http://scholastic-scribe.blogspot.com/2008/10/200-this-blings-for-you.html ) which explains the Award.

4. Each Blogger who wins The Superior Scribbler Award must visit this post and add his/her name to the Mr. Linky List. That way, we’ll be able to keep up-to-date on everyone who receives This Prestigious Honor!

5. Each Superior Scribbler must post these rules on his/her blog.

Let’s see if some of my five respond. Some, I’m sure, don’t even know I stop by their blogs.

Linda Austin
“Cherry Blossoms in Twilight”
http://www.moonbridgebooks.com
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