This evening, the final curtain falls on yet another stellar production.
The Shrew is tamed, hundreds of laughs will be had…
and I wonder yet again at the beauty of a system of education that affords freedom to pursue passion!
A Shrew Tamed!
May 24, 2013 By Leave a Comment
Thought Provoking
May 22, 2013 By 2 Comments
One week ago I was here; which is only 15 miles from where the devastating tornado cut its path.
I was going to share some thoughts about the diversity of the United States, and how freedom had both birthed and encouraged it through the decades.
Instead, I have pondered for the last two evenings, the power of community.
When you live in California, land of face-paced everything; where people are more transient by nature than rooted, and glitz and WOW! precede a lot…
Oklahoma was a breath of fresh air.
Gentlemen with weather-worn faces, who had a couple of decades on me, insisted on holding doors; preceded by a warm, “Let me get that for you, m’am.”
There’s a restaurant called “The Salt Lick.”
This “game” to the rest of the nation?
It’s an institution here. It offers opportunity for people to gather in a polite-yet-rabid fashion, in stadiums that have seen multiple generations of their family. They’re seated with yet another; on their laps or in baby carriers, celebrating a passion. When I texted my dear friend, Cathryn Brown, she agreed in spirit; responding with “Absolutely NOTHING about football can be over the top!”
Community is so very important.
There was a time in America, where neighbors gathered, shared house keys in order to facilitate repair men or a child who had forgotten theirs, exchanged conversation and shared life over meals while celebrating an event. In so many places, this has given way to a fast-paced lifestyle involving automatic garage door openers, and entry into one’s home through a side door in that same garage; with possibly nothing more than a polite wave to someone whom they simply don’t know, despite their proximity.
Community matters. It grounds us, allows us to share in the lives of others, and affords us the privilege of relationship while celebrating diversity amongst people.
So that when storms come, together we are stronger. More resilient. And have greater strength.
Praying for Oklahoma today and every day.
And resolving to shore up some of my community relationships with a bit more than a convenient wave.
Please Allow Me…
May 17, 2013 By Leave a Comment
to introduce you
to Barbara Newbould.
Barbara is one of the most wonderful, beautiful and spectacular people I have the privilege of knowing.
She also happens to be one of the “most mature” readers of TommyMom.
And she is faithful.
Part of the reason I wanted to feature her here, is because she is faithful in all of life.
You see, Barbara or “Babsy” as we often irreverently call her, raised these four people as a single mom when it wasn’t common place.
One of them is my sister-in-law, Nancy.
She went back to night school in order to obtain a job that would allow her to support them.
That job eventually landed both she and the man she worked for, in the Washington Mutual building in downtown Seattle; where he became the bank’s president!
She maintained a beautiful, large home in Seattle, mowing her own lawns, doing household upkeep, and…entertaining with excellence and style.
In a day and age when manners, a classy demeanor and hospitality that genuinely values people can often get lost in the shuffle; Barbara is an inspiration.
She has served me and countless others both in our youth, as young adults, and now as “old people.” LOL
Her youthfulness is unbelieveable, and she is one of those people that exudes class and grace.
She uses a computer and just received an iPhone for Mother’s Day. Not being afraid to try new things, is one of many qualities that keep her young and young-at-heart. She loves to learn.
The Helms boys adore her.
When she cooks or throws a shin-dig, people come running, because it will be a 5 star event.
She bravely and openly battled cancer not too long ago, giving Son #3 an opportunity to serve her back. ( He made her hat, which she proudly wore.)
While short and sweet, I wanted to publicly thank her here for being an individual that values people, her Maker, and doing things with excellence.
Some people bring beauty and grace to a weary world.
Barbara Newbould is one such person.
Do you have a Barbara in your life? How about telling them what you admire about them and why?
Mother’s Day shouldn’t be the only time of year we take time to drop a note or place a call to inspiring people.
I’m choosing to publicly place mine right here!
A word of encouragement in a somewhat weary world does wonders for the human soul.
Love you, Barbara! Thank you for your example.
Laughter and Joy…both good things
May 15, 2013 By Leave a Comment
For Mother’s Day, I requested that my family watch this with me.
While that glorious annual day of leisure, pampering and motherly appreciation has passed, this video is awesome!
I have wondered: How would I respond to a “prank” such as this?
The couple involved exude joy and know how to laugh. Both of these traits are definitely needed in order to remain healthy in this life.
I hope you will take the time to watch it.
And by all means, enjoy!
It Works…Every Time
April 12, 2013 By 4 Comments
“Every human being is born with genius and is destined for greatness.
It is your job to find that genius and then move them in the direction of their greatness.” ~ Dr. Raymond Moore
Easter Sunday, we celebrated in a mighty way; except it was very different.
Trevor and his brother, Wesley, are Son #3′s closest friends.
After we had been acquainted with their family for a relatively short period of time, their mother, Cherylyn came to me. She wanted to know “how we schooled.”
Staggering under the load of both personal and social expectations, the Klemens were dying on the vine. Not that I am the end-all to anything. Many days, I silently wonder about my own sanity; knowing my children are doing so as well, only not always with the silent piece! I was shocked when she said she was trying to carry 14 subjects. I recommended they give Leadership Education a try.
When Trevor was in grade school, professionals came to her and told her that they were of the opinion that he would never read. He simply didn’t have what it would take.
Boy Howdy! Were they ever wrong. Really, really wrong.
Trevor is a wonderful young man. He’s quiet, slow to speak, but at the same time one of the quickest wits and funniest minds I’ve had the privilege of knowing.
And he has struggled. Tremendously. He simply couldn’t find something to ignite a passion. So he began to doubt. He’s been through some really rough phases. Therefore, so has his mother. And his father. Let’s not forget him!
Worse yet, I know that there was a period of time, where Trevor began to wonder if what had been said about him academically was possibly the truth. It was awful on many fronts. Awful, because words resonate with their tone, intent and message for life sometimes. And the things that are said, aren’t often carefully calculated over the course of years, decisions, and futures.
Enter the Fire Academy Explorer Program.
Trevor began to be excited. Well, let’s not get hasty. He’s a very well thought, calculating individual. He perked up. Yes, that’s better.
He went to class after class, community service event after event and (gasp!) took tests. And he passed. With flying colors. Every week, and every time.
He began to diligently work out. And he passed some more tests.
You see, his parents never took the professional prediction to heart. They wouldn’t give up. And neither would he!
He studied, read, read and studied. And his mom helped him; while his dad, his brother and his friends encouraged him.
Eventually, his tests were so well done, that they could use them as the answer key for others.
One time when we were riding together, he gave me a low-down on what had always appeared to me, to be water towers or containers. He explained shapes, colors, and sizes; and what the significance was to knowing this, so that you would know what was housed in them. It was my turn to be the Love of Learning Student.
A little over a month ago, Trevor set a precedent. He was the only ( as in ever, and only, out of anyone regardless of age or experience) individual in California Fire to be invited to the Regional Training Center for the California Wildfire Association.
It’s not for wimps.
They gave out awards like “Most Push Ups in 1 Minute.” Answer: 105 “Most Sit Ups” also in 1 minute. Answer: 58. They ran a 1 1/2 mile stretch. Fastest time?: 8:03.
It was unbelievable.
Academically speaking, one young man was awarded excellence for a 98.7% average.
Company 2 took third place over all, for a combination of both academic and physical prowess. They were the only company to place in both categories. Trevor was a part of that company.
As they marched in…
and were both admonished and praised by their mentors…
I cried.
Honored with awards so very deserved…
each of these youth simply shined.
At one point in this training, Trevor, along with the 40 pounds of gear he was wearing; fell 10 feet into a ravine. When one of the EMTs arrived to check him out, he told him that he should definitely go to the hospital in order to be attended to.
Trevor’s response? : “Sir, with all due respect, I need you to please move out of my way. I have a fire to put out and a tree to chop down; and I won’t be denied the reward of all of this work.”
No, Trevor, you won’t.
Here he is, seen with Chief Hall, who is over the Angeles National Forest.
And here he is with his mom and dad. Two true heroes along with him; because they moved him in the direction of his genius. They still are.
Are you questioning the journey?
Perhaps doubting your capability or passion?
Keep pressing on. Climb out of the ravine. Put out the fires of despair, and chop down the trees of confusion and ill-spoken words looming around you.
Because genius + passion = fulfilled mission.
This formula? It works.
Every time!
Love you Trevor!
Thanks for the inspiration and reminder.
#3, You Rock!
April 5, 2013 By 1 Comment
Nineteen years ago today…
we nearly died, this child and I.
“Oh the Places You’ll Go!” is a Dr. Seuss classic, but the places you’ve been, the things you’ve accomplished and the lessons you’ve taught your mother, are priceless!
Upon entering this world with a BANG!, you have continued to celebrate shock factor in all things.
Your filter can often be non-existent, your daring unnerving, and your humor incapacitating.
Here are some things I know:
To family and friends, you are always loyal and true.
But they, in turn, often have to prove the same loyalty in any given situation, at any time. Say, for instance, when you decide to conduct gravity experiments with pennies on The Tower of Terror in California Adventure, and are faced with being kicked out.
We also have to be prepared for random nights of insomnia, which result in both creativity and productivity that simply can’t be explained.
You love music, daring feats, crazy humor, and the underdog; not necessarily in that order but always with passion and sincerity.
Your bucket list possesses some rather interesting ambitions. Say, for instance, “wearing the Papal hat…for real.” Until then, you have dear friends who provide the next best thing!
You are truly one-of-a-kind!
Our lives would be much less exciting, fun-filled, and humor laden if you were not in it!
We love you, (adore you actually), and can’t wait to see what the next 19 years hold!
With a lightning quick wit, a mind that is constantly creating, questioning and analyzing, and a passion for learning…you can only succeed!
Happy, Happy Birthday, Son #3!
May it be a “Bang Up” year!
Love,
Madre
Sunrise, Sunset
March 29, 2013 By 6 Comments
Fiddler On The Roof is Hero Hubby’s favorite musical. We were so fortunate to see Topol star in the production that came to Los Angeles.
I mentioned Wednesday that I had experienced a tremendous Holy Week and had exciting news today.
Sunrise, Sunset has been a favorite song of mine ever since I first heard it; and I hope you enjoy the lyrics here today, with a Helms twist.
Again, Happy Easter!
(Tevye)
Is this the little girl I carried?
Is this the little boy at play?
(Golde)
I don’t remember growing older
When did they?
(Tevye)
When did she get to be a beauty?
When did he grow to be so tall?
(Golde)
Wasn’t it yesterday
When they were small?
(Men)
Sunrise, sunset
Sunrise, sunset
Swiftly flow the days
Seedlings turn overnight to sunflowers
Blossoming even as we gaze
(Women)
Sunrise, sunset
Sunrise, sunset
Swiftly fly the years
One season following another
Laden with happiness and tears
(Tevye)
What words of wisdom can I give them?
How can I help to ease their way?
(Golde)
Now they must learn from one another
Day by day
(Perchik)
They look so natural together
(Hodel)
Just like two newlyweds should be
(Perchik & Hodel)
Is there a canopy in store for me?
(All)
Sunrise, sunset
Sunrise, sunset
Swiftly fly the years
One season following another
Laden with happiness and tears
Risk With Intention
March 1, 2013 By 6 Comments
Every one of my children has been the teacher more than once in this mother’s life. Over the course of the past two years, this kid has had some stellar moments. Literally. The things that he has taught me and continues to, regarding risk and the rewards thereof, have been bold. Uncomfortable. And extremely rewarding. Especially of late.
Roughly three months ago, he came to the Hero Hubby and me, suggesting the following:
“You know, I’ve seen this incredible opportunity to travel abroad with Georgetown University to London and Stratford-Upon-Avon this summer for a Shakespeare intensive. I think I would like to apply.”
I have had kids jump from 14 feet up, onto our back yard trampoline. I have seen them climb trees that were above concrete driveways. High up. With nothing underneath.
Very little could have prepared me for that statement. Scratch that. While risk is a great teacher and sculptor of character; intentionally shaping fortitude along the way, nothing thus far could have prepared me for that statement! This is Georgetown we are discussing. One does not phone in, saying, “Yoo-Hoo!, I’d like to tag along on this road trip, please!”, receiving a hearty “Welcome aboard! Come one, come all!”, in return. No.
I digress for a moment to state what is perhaps the obvious to many. To others it is the oblivious. Two little letters L and I separate these words. And if pronunced as LIE, they would be closest to accurate in this case. You see, so many people think that risk, especially where, say something like educating out of the box and against the norm is concerned, involves isolation. You’re a one-man band. While perception can be dangerously inaccurate in this particular case; it can also appear uncomfortably correct. Fact is, anything involving risk in this life, can appear to be a one-man endeavor; while casting a pallor on any chance of succeeding. This would be the time to seek (and you shall find) mentors, examples, peers, and whomever else qualifies, who have gone before; sharing the same vision, goals, and even accomplishments. In other words, they’re qualified, regardless of how those in the average or “masses” category perceive them. They’re also equally qualified despite the fact that they may have done things differently.
We encouraged Son #2 to contact one of the professors leading this trip, to inquire as to the possibility of being included. He did. Correspondence went back and forth, and was polite but challenging. He persevered, and went to some mentors. They encouraged him to go for it; offering personal assistance where their areas of expertise could help.
Fast forward to last Thursday. When Son #2: the kid with a speech impediment until the age of 11, who preferred hearth and home above all social invitations and opportunities until the age of 14, who read as quickly as a snail on an uphill climb until the age of 16, and who persevered through it all, despite “what ifs”, “do you think he will evers” and a plethora of other well meaning inquiries, was accepted to Georgetown University’s Summer Abroad Program!
And as if that weren’t enough, he returned for a second season of auditions for The Redlands Shakespeare Festival; and just received word that he has once again been honored with a lead role, as Petruchio in “The Taming of the Shrew.”
I’m humbled, honored, and was moved to tears by the kind and powerful words of recommendation that were the foundation of his requirements for Georgetown.
I’m equally humbled by the talent that has surfaced and become even more evident in a consuming passion.
I’m grateful for people, who because they chose to risk first; proving faithful to both the lessons and the practice that were involved; have been available and willing to assist others.
Next week, I shall expound upon some of them. And it will be a privilege.
For now, I pause: to ruminate, to further cultivate and to celebrate.
Leadership Education works. It is challenging, often difficult, and in the end…so very worth it.
I once gifted Dr. Oliver DeMille with a book that was very dear to my heart. In it, I wrote my thanks; along with this sentiment.
“Come to the edge…”
“It’s too high.”
“Come to the edge.”
“We might fall.”
“Come to the edge.”
“And they came. And he pushed them.
And they flew.” ~ from a speech by Garland Wright
May you have the courage you need to embrace the risk you are offered, so that you can experience the exhilaration of flight!
A Birthday Tribute
February 18, 2013 By 1 Comment
Happy, Happy Birthday, Mr. President!
Thanks for giving us the real gifts.
The gift of a Republic.
While you definitely worked on that with friends, you modeled sacrifice in maintaining its newness.
The gift of character.
You practiced it with tremendous faithfulness.
The gift of vision.
Even in many hours of seeming impossibility and darkness, you pressed on; convinced of the truth you were representing.
The gift of faith.
Valley Forge and your prayer there acknowledging Providence and the Hand of God that is necessary for all things, comes to mind.
The gift of freedom.
While again, so many have sacrificed (and continue to) so much, we have experienced more freedom in more ways than most of the world ever has.
The gift of purposeful reflection.
Looking at your life, one can’t help but be inspired to press on for the greater good in all things. Freedom depends on it.
Your greatness challenges, comforts, and inspires. What we do with that inspiration could very well end up being the best gift we could ever give.
Once again, Happy Birthday!
Take a Stand!: Revisited
January 21, 2013 By Leave a Comment
Today is observed as a holiday in tribute to Civil Rights Movement leader, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. My brother, Tim, had the honor of hearing Ms. Parks speak in his hometown. A year ago, I had the honor of standing center court at the University of Washington, receiving tremendous honors at an annual basketball tournament there, on behalf of his memory and the work he did with kids. Both of these individuals brought about change. And while very different in nature and impact, both kinds were lasting.
Take a stand!
That is what most people think of when confronted with injustice and prejudice.
Rosa Parks took a seat.
By doing so, she ignited what proved to be the momentum to propel the civil rights movement to the front of American consciousness and to secure its rightful place in history.
By refusing to follow a bus company rule that she give her seat to a white rider, Ms. Parks defied over 100 years of racism in the south without lifting so much as a finger.
The beauty of the defiance was its peaceful nature.
In this day and age where ecoterrorists destroy buildings or protesters resort to violent tactics, Rosa Parks personified peace.
This caught the attention of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. ,who himself preached protest through non-violence, and made Montgomery, Alabama the stage for the performance of demanding equality.
What few were expecting was the fortitude of the people of color to inconvenience themselves by walking everywhere, leaving the bus company with huge losses.
This forced them to change their policy regarding people of color.
Never to this point had any attempt at equality been given a nod of approval by any white government, business, or social organization.
It wasn’t until a non-threatening woman of color delivered what proved to be a knock out blow to Alabama racism.
Granted, change did not happen overnight, but then again, lasting change rarely does.
She propelled the movement which later demanded integrated schools, businesses, and marched on Washington D.C. to demand legislation for equality.
Had this woman pushed and shoved her way to get what she wanted, or succumbed to what must have been terrifying threats of violence and ridicule, perhaps change would have been much longer in its arrival.
Yet she showed the courage that few had to this point- simply by taking a seat.
I had the honor of hearing Ms. Parks speaks in my home town, a few years before her death.
She was as humble and unassuming then is she was in the 1950′s.
Make no mistake however- she was still every bit as resolute about her purpose.
For that, people of all color owe her an incredible debt of gratitude and respect.
A bestowing of a coin or stamp should be an automatic for such a fine American and civil rights champion.
Best,
Tim
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