By Donna Braymer
Published by the Harrison Daily Times
Oct. 13, 2009
Whom do you enjoy being around? A person that grumbles, expects the
worse and is always negative? Or do you prefer to be around a person
with a kind word and a positive outlook?
Today’s character word is “optimism.” One definition is, “a general
disposition to expect the best in all things.”
Here are some examples of statements we hear all the time. You decide
which ones are optimistic:
• Oh no. It’s Monday again.
• That teacher always gives bad tests.
• Yes, we have some crime in our country, but look at all the good
things being done.
• Since the sun is shining, I’m going to send these 25 brats outside.
• He is a difficult teacher, but I am learning a lot.
• We are in a beautiful area of the country, and many people want to
live here.
• That team always loses.
• Yes, you accidentally spilled your milk, but at least we have more.
• I can never get an “A” on a paper.
• Mondays are like a blank piece of paper, just waiting for me to fill
them up with good things.
• I don’t like strangers moving into our area.
• Winter will be cold, but the snow gives us some beautiful days and
is so good for the soil.
It’s all how you look at every situation. I think being negative is a
way for some people to get attention — but that’s not what I want to
be known for. Listen to yourself. Are you optimistic?
www.DonnaCBraymer.com
Showing posts with label character. Show all posts
Showing posts with label character. Show all posts
Thursday, October 15, 2009
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
Millionaire Integrity
By Donna Braymer
Published 10.6.09
Harrison Daily Times
I love to hear what books successful people are reading. Several
people have mentioned the two books by Dr. Thomas J. Stanley, “The
Millionaire Mind” and “The Millionaire Next Door.”
Of the thousands of completed responses for his study, most were
first-generation millionaires. They did not inherit the money, but
began their own companies or invested wisely from a young age and
never spent more than they made.
They were asked, “What are the top five factors important in
explaining your economic success?” The number one factor was integrity
— being honest with all people.
Surprised? Did you think millionaires would lie, cheat, steal and
gamble their way to the top? No, they don’t. Luck was number 27 on the
list.
Discipline — applying self control — was their second choice. Social
skills — getting along with people — was the third. A supportive
spouse was number four, and hard work —more than most people — was the
number five.
All of these, with the exception of a supportive spouse, are character
traits students can develop right now. Interested in being a
millionaire?
Most of the millionaires also had strong leadership qualities. “We
have the ability to sell our ideas to our employees and suppliers and
our products to carefully targeted audiences,” Stanley quotes a group
of millionaires. “We provide a product or service that has strong
demand, but few suppliers to fill that demand. We do not follow the
crowd.”
Integrity — being honest with all people, can affect your bank account.
www.DonnaCBraymer.com
Published 10.6.09
Harrison Daily Times
I love to hear what books successful people are reading. Several
people have mentioned the two books by Dr. Thomas J. Stanley, “The
Millionaire Mind” and “The Millionaire Next Door.”
Of the thousands of completed responses for his study, most were
first-generation millionaires. They did not inherit the money, but
began their own companies or invested wisely from a young age and
never spent more than they made.
They were asked, “What are the top five factors important in
explaining your economic success?” The number one factor was integrity
— being honest with all people.
Surprised? Did you think millionaires would lie, cheat, steal and
gamble their way to the top? No, they don’t. Luck was number 27 on the
list.
Discipline — applying self control — was their second choice. Social
skills — getting along with people — was the third. A supportive
spouse was number four, and hard work —more than most people — was the
number five.
All of these, with the exception of a supportive spouse, are character
traits students can develop right now. Interested in being a
millionaire?
Most of the millionaires also had strong leadership qualities. “We
have the ability to sell our ideas to our employees and suppliers and
our products to carefully targeted audiences,” Stanley quotes a group
of millionaires. “We provide a product or service that has strong
demand, but few suppliers to fill that demand. We do not follow the
crowd.”
Integrity — being honest with all people, can affect your bank account.
www.DonnaCBraymer.com
Monday, September 28, 2009
A little lie won't hurt. Will it?
By Donna Braymer
Published by the Harrison Daily Times
Sept. 29, 2009
What’s wrong with a little lie every now and then? It is certainly
easy to do. But a lie is still wrong, whether little or big. Why?
Honesty is an very important character trait. Once you have a
reputation for not telling the truth, it’s hard to convince people you
have changed.
People around you need to know they can trust you, and can always
believe what you say.
To my shame, as a teenager, I was very good at not telling a lie, but
also not telling the whole truth. That is just as wrong.
Once you start telling small lies, it gets easier and easier to
continue the deception. I’ve known some people who have told enough
lies, they aren’t sure what the truth really is.
It’s often said, “Tell a lie long enough and loud enough, and people
will take it for truth.”
Sometimes we tell ourselves lies, which are also dangerous. We think
we are not very smart, or put ourselves down for making a mistake. If
you constantly bombard your inner self with negative thoughts, you
will become what you think and be very miserable.
Small lies turn into big lies and lots of complications. Learn to
always tell the truth, to yourself and others. You are human. When you
make a mistake, admit it. Don’t blame others — be honest. Take
responsibility and make wise, honest choices.
www.DonnaCBraymer.com
Published by the Harrison Daily Times
Sept. 29, 2009
What’s wrong with a little lie every now and then? It is certainly
easy to do. But a lie is still wrong, whether little or big. Why?
Honesty is an very important character trait. Once you have a
reputation for not telling the truth, it’s hard to convince people you
have changed.
People around you need to know they can trust you, and can always
believe what you say.
To my shame, as a teenager, I was very good at not telling a lie, but
also not telling the whole truth. That is just as wrong.
Once you start telling small lies, it gets easier and easier to
continue the deception. I’ve known some people who have told enough
lies, they aren’t sure what the truth really is.
It’s often said, “Tell a lie long enough and loud enough, and people
will take it for truth.”
Sometimes we tell ourselves lies, which are also dangerous. We think
we are not very smart, or put ourselves down for making a mistake. If
you constantly bombard your inner self with negative thoughts, you
will become what you think and be very miserable.
Small lies turn into big lies and lots of complications. Learn to
always tell the truth, to yourself and others. You are human. When you
make a mistake, admit it. Don’t blame others — be honest. Take
responsibility and make wise, honest choices.
www.DonnaCBraymer.com
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
Patriots Make A Differance
Patriots make a difference
Published in the Harrison Daily Times 9.15.09
Last Friday the United States remembered the attack our nation
suffered eight years ago on September 11, 2001.
The tragic event has been turned into a day to remember the
individuals that place their lives on the line to protect freedom and
provide safety.
I am very thankful for the brave men and women that serve in our
military, and provide local emergency help and protection. Sometimes
the question is asked, “Why would you want to have a job that could be
dangerous?”
During our life time, even working in a school can be considered a
dangerous job. I believe people choose a profession because they want
to make a difference. Everyone wants to feel needed and make like
their life count.
Does this line of thought apply to students? Yes it sure does. I still
remember students that were kind, helpful and protective. I’m sure you
know some that are cruel bullies, always demanding attention, and
causing problems.
What would our world be like if today’s students determined to be
young patriots? To have the needs of others put before their own. To
care for other people’s property and to respect authority. It is very
possible. Start by doing something for someone else, without expecting
any recognition.
Cowards attacked our nation and changed our world forever. Be a brave
patriot and determine to make a difference in a good way.
www.DonnaCBraymer.com
Published in the Harrison Daily Times 9.15.09
Last Friday the United States remembered the attack our nation
suffered eight years ago on September 11, 2001.
The tragic event has been turned into a day to remember the
individuals that place their lives on the line to protect freedom and
provide safety.
I am very thankful for the brave men and women that serve in our
military, and provide local emergency help and protection. Sometimes
the question is asked, “Why would you want to have a job that could be
dangerous?”
During our life time, even working in a school can be considered a
dangerous job. I believe people choose a profession because they want
to make a difference. Everyone wants to feel needed and make like
their life count.
Does this line of thought apply to students? Yes it sure does. I still
remember students that were kind, helpful and protective. I’m sure you
know some that are cruel bullies, always demanding attention, and
causing problems.
What would our world be like if today’s students determined to be
young patriots? To have the needs of others put before their own. To
care for other people’s property and to respect authority. It is very
possible. Start by doing something for someone else, without expecting
any recognition.
Cowards attacked our nation and changed our world forever. Be a brave
patriot and determine to make a difference in a good way.
www.DonnaCBraymer.com
Friday, July 31, 2009
Where has the summer gone?
I don't know about you, but the summer is almost gone! I know it's just July 30, but still, school activities are already getting started.
Rowdy and I have been very busy this summer starting the promotion of his newest book, Rowdy Raccoon and the Turtle Who Wanted To Fly.
The publisher, her staff, and the artist did a tremendous job on the 32-page, hard cover...all color book!! Can you tell I'm excited?
I'm also thrilled that Arkansas Children's Hospital has accepted Rowdy as a fund-raising partner. So a portion of the proceeds from my personal book sales, is donated to the hospital. Very exciting!
Help us get the word out on the national scene. The book is available everywhere! Just ask for it, if your favorite store doesn't have it yet.
Also ask at your library!
If you'd like an autographed copy to a special child in your life, just purchase from Rowdy's web page. (www.RowdyRaccoon.com)
Also, Rowdy has ventured into the FaceBook scene. Sign up for his fan club at "Children's Book for Character."
One more thing...if you are interested in using Rowdy as a fund-raiser for your school or organization just give me an email and we'll talk!
Until next time....
Donna
www.DonnaCBraymer.com
Rowdy and I have been very busy this summer starting the promotion of his newest book, Rowdy Raccoon and the Turtle Who Wanted To Fly.
The publisher, her staff, and the artist did a tremendous job on the 32-page, hard cover...all color book!! Can you tell I'm excited?
I'm also thrilled that Arkansas Children's Hospital has accepted Rowdy as a fund-raising partner. So a portion of the proceeds from my personal book sales, is donated to the hospital. Very exciting!
Help us get the word out on the national scene. The book is available everywhere! Just ask for it, if your favorite store doesn't have it yet.
Also ask at your library!
If you'd like an autographed copy to a special child in your life, just purchase from Rowdy's web page. (www.RowdyRaccoon.com)
Also, Rowdy has ventured into the FaceBook scene. Sign up for his fan club at "Children's Book for Character."
One more thing...if you are interested in using Rowdy as a fund-raiser for your school or organization just give me an email and we'll talk!
Until next time....
Donna
www.DonnaCBraymer.com
Thursday, June 4, 2009
Heading to Arkansas Children's Hospital
Rowdy and I will leave Friday for a trip to Little Rock for the Circle of Friends meeting at Arkansas Children's Hospital. I feel so honored to be a part of this wonderful group of volunteers that give of their time and money to raise funds for the hospital. This will be my first time to visit the hospital, and I'm looking forward to the tour. I hope I have the opportunity to let some children give Rowdy a hug and get a book mark.
Arkansas Children's Hospital has approved me as a partner to represent the hospital with Rowdy at fund-raising events. So a portion of the proceeds of the new book, Rowdy Raccoon and the Turtle Who Wanted To Fly will be donated to the hospital. I'm very exctied about this partnership. They are such a worthy cause! Plus I'm excited because the new book looks so great. I can hardly wait!!! It will be out in just days. You can pre-order a copy from Rowdy's web page or Amazon.com.
Later!
db
www.RowdyRaccoon.com
www.DonnaCBraymer.com
Courage
Courage
Character Column published on the NIE page of the Harrison Daily Times
Jan. 08
Are you afraid of something? One definition for courage is “the ability to do something that frightens one or to have strength in the face of pain or grief.”
Does giving a report to the classroom make you break out in a sweat?
Being nervous and afraid is a normal response.
When it comes to public speaking, the more prepared you are, the more
you practice, the better off you will be. It really will be easier.
I have a good friend that would be physically ill if he knew he had to
give a report to the class. Now he speaks in front of crowds all the
time, and loves it.
Just remember to be a kind listener and not laugh or make fun of the
person giving a report. Treat the person speaking the way you want to
be treated when it is your turn.
Sometimes it takes courage to stand up for what is right, and not
making fun of others is definitely the right thing to do.
Some fear is good. We should be afraid to play in the street because
we could be ran over. If your fear can be overcome, have the courage
to do so.
www.DonnaCBraymer.com
Character Column published on the NIE page of the Harrison Daily Times
Jan. 08
Are you afraid of something? One definition for courage is “the ability to do something that frightens one or to have strength in the face of pain or grief.”
Does giving a report to the classroom make you break out in a sweat?
Being nervous and afraid is a normal response.
When it comes to public speaking, the more prepared you are, the more
you practice, the better off you will be. It really will be easier.
I have a good friend that would be physically ill if he knew he had to
give a report to the class. Now he speaks in front of crowds all the
time, and loves it.
Just remember to be a kind listener and not laugh or make fun of the
person giving a report. Treat the person speaking the way you want to
be treated when it is your turn.
Sometimes it takes courage to stand up for what is right, and not
making fun of others is definitely the right thing to do.
Some fear is good. We should be afraid to play in the street because
we could be ran over. If your fear can be overcome, have the courage
to do so.
www.DonnaCBraymer.com
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
Respect
By: Donna Braymer
Copyright Harrison Daily Times
Published 12.9.08
A common word in character development for school districts is respect. It may be on everyone’s list to study, but it’s not seen inaction as often as it should be.
Some would call me “old fashioned” but I still feel people deserve respect when you call them by name. You can never go wrong calling someone, Mr., Mrs., or Ms. and then adding their last name.
If they want you to call them by their first name, they can issue that invitation. Respect can also be shown by the way you are dressed. Unless an event is listed as very casual, you should dress in your best, or at least the ‘good clothes.'
I remember when everyone had church clothes, play clothes and school clothes. If you are going into a court room, play clothes would not show the proper respect for the judge and the law.
When it’s time for a job interview, remember to show respect in how you speak, your clothing and actions. Chewing gum like a cow chews her cud does not make a good impression on a potential employer.
You can also show respect to yourself. Stay away from harmful activities, drugs and be a respectful life-long learner.
www.DonnaCBraymer.com
Copyright Harrison Daily Times
Published 12.9.08
A common word in character development for school districts is respect. It may be on everyone’s list to study, but it’s not seen inaction as often as it should be.
Some would call me “old fashioned” but I still feel people deserve respect when you call them by name. You can never go wrong calling someone, Mr., Mrs., or Ms. and then adding their last name.
If they want you to call them by their first name, they can issue that invitation. Respect can also be shown by the way you are dressed. Unless an event is listed as very casual, you should dress in your best, or at least the ‘good clothes.'
I remember when everyone had church clothes, play clothes and school clothes. If you are going into a court room, play clothes would not show the proper respect for the judge and the law.
When it’s time for a job interview, remember to show respect in how you speak, your clothing and actions. Chewing gum like a cow chews her cud does not make a good impression on a potential employer.
You can also show respect to yourself. Stay away from harmful activities, drugs and be a respectful life-long learner.
www.DonnaCBraymer.com
A Charlie Brown Christmas
Copyright Harrison Daily Times
Published 12.16.2008
One of my favorite television specials is “A Charlie Brown Christmas.” Creator Charles Schultz allows the main character to express his sadness at what Christmas has become.
Charlie Brown is disappointed that the girl he cares about does not care enough to send him a Christmas card; even with lots of hints dropped her direction.
His little sister wants to write a letter to Santa demanding cash divided into tens and twenties. Even Snoopy goes crazy decorating his dog house with Christmas lights.
Upon the advice of Lucy, he gets involved in directing a play aboutthe Nativity. He is determined to share the true meaning of Christmas, in spite of everyone’s focus in other directions.
Charlie gets frustrated at the gang and ends up shouting, “Does anyone know the true meaning of Christmas?”
Linus quietly steps forward and reads the true meaning of Christmasfrom Luke, Chapter 2, of the Bible. Charlie learns commercialism cannot ruin his Christmas.
Christmas is better when we remember the first gift given. Give yourfamily the gift of your time and talents. Read a book to an elderly friend. Clean out the car or your bedroom. Share the true meaning of Christmas.
www.DonnaCBraymer.com
Wednesday, December 3, 2008
Compassion
Compassion
Copyright Harrison Daily Times
Published 12.2.08
The needs and suffering of others are on our minds more during the Christmas season. But compassion for others is something we can feel, and act on, at any time.
Our community is known for helping others, whether it’s gathering newtoys for Arkansas Children’s Hospital, or helping a family with items after a fire, tornado or hurricane.
The definition for compassion includes understanding the suffering ofothers and wanting to do something about it. I may not totally understand all kinds suffering because I haven’t experienced it. But I can still be involved and help someone through their situation.
We can donate a new toy. We can drop some coins or cash into the Salvation Army’s red buckets. We can volunteer our time, pick up trash and help those in need.
In the classroom, we can help someone with a project that seems overwhelming or have compassion on a new student by showing them around and introducing others.
We can invite a new friend to play onthe playground, or eat lunch with our favorite friends.
When we think about how it would feel to be in their situation, we can feel compassion. But it’s even better to do something about it.
Donna Braymer
www.DonnaCBraymer.com
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
Patriotism
Patriotism
Copyright Harrison Daily Times
Nov. 11. 2008
Today we honor our veterans — men and women who have served our country to provide and protect our freedom.
I asked Kendra Rudd, a 17 year old Green Forest senior, to share her thoughts on patriotism. Rudd said, “Patriots believe that America is worthy of their protection, their love. Patriotism is found in many forms — a flag flying outside of a home, a ‘God Bless America’ bumper sticker or a star spangled red, white and blue cookie.“
But the ultimate symbol of patriotism is offering one’s life for the protection of America and her people. To sacrifice the comfort of home, the reassuring, physical closeness of family, friends and knowingly venture into danger is indeed an act of patriotism.”
The dictionary states a patriot is a person who loves their country and, if necessary will fight for it. Being patriotic is showing love for your country and pride in it.
We do live in the greatest nation in the world, in spite of our faults. We are a nation made up of imperfect individuals of all nationalities and backgrounds. The term “melting pot” describes us well.
Just remember, when we’ve been melted together into one nation, we are no longer separate entities. We become “one nation, under God.”
www.DonnaCBraymer.com
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
Discipline
By Donna Braymer
Copyright by the Harrison Daily Times
Published 10.28.08
The phrase “old-fashioned discipline” was said to me last week, and it stuck in my head.Why would doing the right thing at the right time be “old-fashioned?”
I guess because we live in a microwave society, we have lost the discipline of making ourselves “wait.”
Saving our money for something we want instead of using Mom’s credit card would be an example. Getting some extra jobs around the neighborhood to purchase your own iPod will make it even more enjoyable to you.
Going into the seventh grade, when I wanted contact lenses, my eye doctor said I had to earn half of the money myself, so I had to baby-sit like crazy that summer to earn $90. My parents could have paid for the whole amount; why did he make me do that? Because he knew if I had to work hard to pay for them, I would also have the discipline to take care of them and not damage my eyes.
The dictionary states discipline is “training to act in accordance with rules, or the activity, exercise or regimen that develops or improves a skill.” Let’s make discipline a popular word and activity again.
Donna Braymer
Business Editor
Harrison Daily Times
P.O. Box 40Harrison, AR 72602
http://www.harrisondaily.com/
870-743-0605 Direct Line
870-741-2325 HDT Office
870-741-5632 Fax
870-741-2313 After Hours Newsroom
www.DonnaCBraymer.com
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
Let Encouragement Spill Over
By DONNA BRAYMER
Copyright by the Harrison Daily Times
I love encouragement. I also love to encourage.
One definition stated, “Support that inspires confidence and a will to continue or develop.”When we share an encouraging word with someone, it usually makes them smile, or at least nod their head. Giving someone hope, confidence or courage only makes the world a better place.
How does that apply to us? If a fellow student is afraid to climb the ladder to the slide, encourage them to at least try. Tell them you will be right there to make sure they do not fall, and you will be there to share their victory and accomplishment. You have just shared some encouragement and inspired courage.
If a new student looks lost in a hallway, offer directions.
Encouragement can also be shared without a word spoken. A friendly smile works wonders. I’ve been in BIG cities where it seems no one smiles. It becomes a game to exchange a smile.
Encouragement is not expensive. Just a moment of your time and awareness. It doesn’t take away from who you are, but it does make you a better person. Look around. Everyone needs encouragement, even the person that pours it out every day.
Printed on the Newspapers In Education page of the Harrison Daily Times on 9.9.08.
www.DonnaCBraymer.com
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
Initiative Column
This character column was published on the NIE (Newspapers in Education) page of the Harrison Daily Times on Tuesday, October 7, 2008.
A student recently took the initiative to confront an issue she felt was wrong at her school. Though ridiculed and bullied by other students, she remained true to the issues of right and wrong. You go girl!
Initiative means the ability to act independently with a fresh approach to a problem before others do.It is easy to get disgusted and give up. But we can’t. Each day has a purpose and plan. Make your school a better place, or invent something that changes the world. Do something to make a difference on this earth with the time you are here. Get involved. Motivate others. Be kind. Take time to care. Change takes initiative.
The timeline of the telephone makes an interesting Internet search. Several men are credited with inventing and developing different aspects of the communication system over many hundreds of years.
Bottom line....I’m thankful for each persons’ initiative to pursue their ideas. Now we can carry a small phone in our pocket and speak to someone around the world. We’ve come a long way from strings and cans.
Congratulations to the initiative of the student. Her world is a better place.
www.DonnaCBraymer.com
Initiative changes school, world
By Donna Braymer
Copywrite 2008
Harrison Daily Times
A student recently took the initiative to confront an issue she felt was wrong at her school. Though ridiculed and bullied by other students, she remained true to the issues of right and wrong. You go girl!
Initiative means the ability to act independently with a fresh approach to a problem before others do.It is easy to get disgusted and give up. But we can’t. Each day has a purpose and plan. Make your school a better place, or invent something that changes the world. Do something to make a difference on this earth with the time you are here. Get involved. Motivate others. Be kind. Take time to care. Change takes initiative.
The timeline of the telephone makes an interesting Internet search. Several men are credited with inventing and developing different aspects of the communication system over many hundreds of years.
Bottom line....I’m thankful for each persons’ initiative to pursue their ideas. Now we can carry a small phone in our pocket and speak to someone around the world. We’ve come a long way from strings and cans.
Congratulations to the initiative of the student. Her world is a better place.
www.DonnaCBraymer.com
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
