Wednesday's Word of the Week - Completely Human

When a bookstore owner told me a woman had stomped into his shop, angry, slamming one of my books on the counter, I knew exactly what he was talking about. I wrote that Jesus may have had pimples. He may have had bony knees. But I said, “One thing’s for sure, he was, while completely divine, completely human.”

There’s something safe about a God who never had calluses. There’s something majestic about a God who never scraped his elbow. But there’s also something cold about a God who cannot relate to what you and I feel.

Rejection? He felt it. Temptation? He knew it. Loneliness? He experienced it. Death? He tasted it. And stress? He could write a best-selling book about it.

Why did he do it? One reason. So that when you hurt, you’ll go to him and let him heal you!

“For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet he did not sin. Hebrews 4:15.”

From In the Eye of the Storm by Max Lucado

Toolbox Tuesday - Send Regular E-Letters

26. Send Regular E-Letters

Sending regular e-letters (email newsletters) costs you nothing other than your time, but if you want to make them effective, you need to keep them short and to the point. If an e-letter is too long, it simply won’t be read.

With that in mind, it is better to send frequent e-letters which focus on just one or two things, rather than saving it all up for a massive email once every few months. Make sure the information you are sending is new, relevant and gives the reader a ‘call to action’ – that is, after reading the e-letter what do you want them to do?

Make sure you have permission to email the recipients and give them the option to unsubscribe.

Wednesday's Word of the Week - Grace Chooses Foregiveness

Victoria Ruvolo doesn’t remember the 18-year-old boy leaning out the window holding, of all things, a frozen turkey. He threw it at her windshield. Crashing through the glass, it shattered Victoria’s face like a dinner plate on concrete.

John 13:14-15 says: “Since I, the Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you ought to wash each other’s feet. Do as I have done to you.”

Victoria Ruvolo did. Months later, she stood face to face with her offender in court. No longer cocky, he was trembling, tearful, and apologetic. Six months behind bars, five years’ probation. Everyone in the courtroom objected. He sobbed, and she spoke: “I forgive you. I want your life to be the best it can be.”

The reduced sentence was her idea. “God gave me a second chance at life, and I passed it on” she said!

Grace chooses to see God’s forgiveness!

From GRACE by Max Lucado

Toolbox Tuesday - Write Articles for Other Peoples Websites

25. Write Articles for Other Peoples Websites

Increasingly the internet is becoming the first place people go for advice. It doesn't matter whether they want to know how to lower their cholesterol, manage their troublesome teen, or bake on a budget – chances are the internet is the first place they will search.

Writing ‘how-to’ articles about the issues that affect your potential members and clients, is a good way to be seen on the net. Once they have read your expert advice, they can click through to discover all the other ways you can help.

Wednesday's Word of the Week - Make it Personal

Christ took away your sins. He endured not just the nails of the Romans, the mockery of the crowd, and the spear of the soldier, but the anger of God!

God didn’t overlook your sins, lest he endorse them. He didn’t punish you lest he destroy you. He instead found a way to punish the sin and preserve the sinner. Jesus took your punishment, and God gave you the credit for Jesus’ perfection. As long as the cross is God’s gift to the world, it will touch you but not change you.

Precious as it is to proclaim, “Christ died for the world,” even sweeter it is to whisper, “Christ died for me!”

For my sins he died. He took my place on the cross. He felt my shame and spoke my name. Thank God for the day Jesus took your place, for the day Grace happened to you!

From GRACE by Max Lucado

Toolbox Tuesday - Get Profiled in a National Magazine

24. Get Profiled in a National Magazine

The community sector is full of inspirational and outright incredible stories – many of which we take for granted because we see or work amongst them everyday. However for those who are not a part of the community sector, these stories of courage, hope and inspiration and truly magical moments.

Getting these stories into a national magazine is a great way to raise the profile of your organisation and shine the spotlight on the work that you do within your communities. You don’t necessarily have to be a journalist or PR agent to make this happen, and you don’t necessarily need to employ one either!

Coping with the Silly Season - Zzzzzzzzzzzz

Just like eating well, sleep is an essential ingredient for coping with stress.  If you have some late nights with Christmas celebrations, make sure you have some early nights to balance it out.

Merry Christmas everyone xx

Coping with the Silly Season - Y - You're NOT Perfect - Accept It

No Matter how hard you try, you will drop the ball sometime between now and Christmas.  Let go of perfectionism, and accept that it happens to the best of us.  Nobody cares if your house is not House and Garden tidy, or your 'bring a plate' ia a store bought packet of biscuits.  Work to your strengths and let the other stuff go.

Coping with the Silly Season - X - Explore Possibilities

Just because you have always done things a certain way, doesn't mean it has to be that way forever.  If this time of year really gets the better of you - think about how you can do things differently.  A few people might get their feathers ruffled in the beginning, but let that be their problem - not yours.

Coping with the Silly Season - W - Work Flexi-Hours

Sometimes it's not that I haven't go time, it's that I haven't got time right at that moment!  This is particularly true for me in the lead-up to Christmas, when everything seems to happen at once.

If you don't do it already, ask if you can work flexi-hours, even if it's just for the month of December.  This will help you juggle work and family commitments more easily, and you'll be far more productive when you are in the office.  I always achieve much more when I'm not stressing about where else I should be.

Coping with the Silly Season - V - Visual Reminders

How often do we hear 'Remember What Matters' and how often do we forget?  Make a big poster to hang on the wall of your office or kitchen, so you can continually remind yourself of what really matters in your life.  It's easy to get caught up in the stress and pressure of Christmas, and a visual reminder is a simple way to get yourself back on track.

Wednesday's Word of the Week - Gifted, Equipped and Commissioned!

Satan’s condemnation brings no repentance or resolve, just regret!

Satan has one aim: steal your peace, kill your dreams, and destroy your future.

He’s deputized people to peddle his poison. Friends dredge up your past. Preachers proclaim all guilt and no grace. And parents, oh, your parents. They own a travel agency that specializes in guilt trips. “Why can’t you grow up?” “When are you going to make me proud?”

But he will not have the last word! Jesus has acted on your behalf. Jesus Christ rises to your defense.

Hebrews 10:21 urges: “. . .let us come near to God with a sincere heart and a sure faith, because we have been made free from a guilty conscience.”

Not just for our past mistakes but also for our future ones. Behold the fruit of grace: saved by God, raised by God, seated with God!

Gifted, equipped, and commissioned!

From GRACE by Max Lucado

Coping with the Silly Season - U - Use Technology

Whether at work or at home, there is technology available to make you r life easier.  Use it.  Order gifts online.  Avoid the supermarket and get groceries online.  Put the answerphone on.  Send out Holiday Greetings via Facebook.

Toolbox Tuesday - Register with an Online Fundraising Site

23. Register with an Online Fundraising Site

Online fundraising sites allow you to create your own promotional page about your organisation, and the specific project you are raising money for. You can add photographs and blogs to truly engage people in your cause, and people can make donations to you via the site. Creating a fundraising page is free, but the website owners take a 5% administration fee for any money raised.

The plus side of using an online fundraising site is that you reach people you may not ordinarily reach. There are two great fundraising sites in New Zealand, and both are very pro-active in promoting the organisations that use them. Check them out at www.givealittle.co.nz and www.fundraiseonline.co.nz .

Coping with the Silly Season - T - To-Do Lists

I am a big 'to-do' list maker at any time of the year, but at Christmas time they really are my saving grace.  At this itme of year I make three seperate lists:  One for things I need to do in the office, one for things I need to do at home, and one for things I need to do while I am out and about.  My out and about list is divided in to 'locations', so whenever I am in that area of town I can get everything on the list done at once.

Coping with the Silly Season - S - Schedule Uninterrupted Time

Both at home and in the office, schedule one hour each day of uninterrupted time.  Close the door, turn off the phone, and do whatever else you need to do, so you can get things done without interruption.

For me, the first hour in the office is uninterrupted time, and at home, it is scheduled differently depending on the day.

Coping with the Silly Season - R - Realistic Expectations

While we would all love the movie-version of a family Christmas with all the trimmings, for some of us it's just not going to happen.  Try not to focus on other people's expectations, and get real about how Christmas will be for you and your family.  The trick is to celebrate what you have and not wish for what you haven't - and not just in a material sense.

Coping with the Silly Season - Q - Quit Complaining

Everyone knows you're busy, tired and stressed - chances are they are busy, tired and stressed too.  Instead of focussing on the negatives, consciously look for the positive in every day.  By all means be tired, but make sure you are tired AND something else.  Tired and excited.  Tired and grateful.  Tired and enthusiastic.  What you say has a big impact on how you feel.

Coping with the Silly Season - P - Plan Ahead

Let's face it, we all know how crazy this time of year can be, but we still act surprised when the craziness hits.  There's still a month until Christmas, so start planning and do some of the simple things ahead of time.

Coping with the Silly Season - O - Out-of-Office Reply

If at all possible, load your email out-of-office reply a couple of days before your Christmas holidays begin.  The writers will assume you have already left for your Christmas break, and won't be expecting a reply until you get back.  This gives you a chance to complete any important or urgent tasks, without being bogged-down by things that can wait.

Wednesday's Word of the Week - Pigeonholing

Life is so much easier if we can put labels on people! Pigeonholing permits us to wash our hands and leave.

“Oh I know him—he’s an alcoholic.

“She’s a liberal Democrat.”

“He’s divorced.”

Categorizing others creates distance and gives us a convenient exit strategy for avoiding involvement. Jesus took an entirely different approach. He was all about including people.

John 1:14 says, “The Word became flesh and blood, and moved into the neighborhood.”

Jesus touched lepers and loved foreigners. His Facebook page included the likes of Matthew the IRS agent, and some floozy he met at Simon’s house. Jesus set aside the privileges of deity and took on the status of a slave. He became human!

Jesus sends this message: Don’t call any person common. Don’t call any person unfit! Every person matters to God.

From GRACE by Max Lucado

Coping with the Silly Season - N - No, No, No

Don't be afraid to say no.  Say no to Christmas parties, say no to working late, say no to last minute catch-ups with people who think everything needs to happen before Christmas.  Remember Christmas is a season, and in New Zealand, it carries right through till the end of January.  Make a plan to fit everything in over the whole holiday period - not just a few weeks in December.

Toolbox Tuesday - Use Your Testimonials

22. Use Your Testimonials

It’s one thing for you to tell people how great you are, but it’s a whole lot more valuable if someone else does it for you. Gather testimonials from your volunteers about how much fun it is to be involved with your organisation, ask clients or past clients to share how much they have benefited from your service, and encourage sponsors to give feedback about their involvement also. Once you have them, use them on every piece of marketing material you have. Leaving them in the office drawer is a waste of time and space!

Coping with the Silly Season - M - Money, Money, Money

Nothing causes more stress than money worries.  If you haven't done so already, make a realistic budget for Christmas, and then stick to it.  Make sure you include the hidden extra costs like petrol (for all the Christmas running around), food (for 'bring a plates'), gas for the BBQ and toilet paper (for all those extra guests).

Coping with the Silly Season - L - Lead by Example

I know this is sometimes easier said than done, but if you want your family and colleagues to get through the silly season feeling calm and relaxed, then you need to show them how its done.  If you feel like you are getting tetchy under pressure, take some time for yourself and work out what's going on.  Take deep breaths and prioritise your workload.  If you find yourself snapping at whoever walks through your door - take action and close the door!

Coping with the Silly Season - K - Keep it Fun

Even with busy workloads, you can still make your workplace fun.  Make an effort to put up some Christmas decorations, bring in some yummy morning tea, and wear a Santa hat if you need to.  Take little, inexpensive actions to instil some Christmas spirit in the daily grind.

Coping with the Silly Season - J - Joint Celebrations

While its nice to organise a Christmas Party for everyone involved with your organisation, it's not necessary to organise separate celebrations for every group of people.  Why not organise a joint celebration for all your programmes, donors, and supporters.

Not only will this save on time and expense, it is a great opportunity for the whole organisation to come together.  Donors can meet the people they support.  Members from one programme can meet members from another.  Supporters can learn aspects of your organisation that they might not otherwise hear about.

Win-win-win!

Coping with the Silly Season - I - Identify Your Triggers

You have been through this time of year many times before, so there's every chance you know what triggers your stress.  Identify your triggers before they happen, and have a plan to either avoid them or manage them.  Trying to figure it out in the heat of the moment just won't work.

Coping with the Silly Season - H - Holiday Focus

When you are on holiday, BE on holiday.  Resist the urge to check emails, or catch up on paperwork.  If you want to be truly effective when you return to work, you need a proper break.

Wednesday's Word of the Week - Some Days Never Come

“Someday we’ll take that cruise. . .”

“Someday I’ll have time to call and talk. . .”

“Someday, the children will understand why I was so busy. . .”

But you know the truth, don’t you? Some days never come.

Go to the effort. Invest the time. Make the apology. Take the trip. Do it. The seized opportunity renders joy. The neglected brings regret.

Remember Mary’s extravagance in pouring expensive perfume over Jesus’ head? And Jesus’ disciples criticizing her- “Why waste that perfume? It could have been sold for a great deal of money and given to the poor.”

Don’t miss Jesus’ prompt defense of Mary in Matthew 26:10: “Why are you troubling this woman? She did an excellent thing for me.”

Don’t miss Jesus’ message. There’s a time to pour out your affections on one you love.

And when the time comes—seize it!

From Cast of Characters by Max Lucado

Coping with the Silly Season - G - Get Moving

When life gets busy, it's easy to make excuses about not exercising because it feels like you don't have the time.  Trust me - if you keep exercising, you will be so much more productive in the time you do have.

Toolbox Tuesday - Tell Your Citizens Advice Bureau

21. Tell Your Citizens Advice Bureau

The Citizens Advice Bureau is still one of the first places people call when they need information – especially if they are new to town. Make sure the Citizens Advice Bureau has a brochure about your organisation, including details of how people can get in touch with you directly. If you do not have an office, make sure the personal contact details remain up-to-date as positions change.

Coping with the Silly Season - F - Family Focussed

Instead of organising a Christmas Party just for staff and volunteers, try organising an event where their families can also be involved.  This will make it easier for them to balance their work-family commitments, and you'll end up with a happier (less stressed) team.

Coping with the Silly Season - E - Eat Well

I know this sound cliché, but you really do cope better with stress when you eat well.  Granted it's difficult to eat like a saint with endless Christmas parties to attend, but when you are at home - stick to a plan.  Eat plenty of fruit and veges, drink lots of water, and limit your alcohol intake.  Besides, this way you'll enjoy the Christmas party treats so much more.

from Tonic magazine by EXULT

Coping with the Silly Season - D - Delegate

As a Mum, there are parts of Christmas I really like to organise myself.  Equally however, there are things that I truly loathe to do.  (Cleaning the deck-chairs is one!).  Whether at work, or at home, make sure you delegate the tasks that drain you of energy, and focus on the ones you enjoy.  What seems like a chore for you may well be a 'to-do list favourite' for someone else.  If you keep doing everything yourself, others will never get a chance to do the jobs they enjoy.

from Tonic magazine by EXULT

Coping with the Silly Season - C - Christmas Cards

A hand-written Christmas card is a simple way to acknowledge the support you have received from donors and volunteers throughout the year, but it can be a really time-consuming task if you have a long list of supporters.

Instead of trying to do them all on your own, give each of your team a list of supporters and ask them to choose 10 (or more) people whom they would like to thank-you to.  Most often staff will choose to thank people they have had some contact with, so not only does it help to share the load, it makes the acknowledgement more genuine as well.

from Tonic magazine by EXULT

Coping with the Silly Season - B - Bake Ahead

Christmas seems to be filled with functions where you need to 'bring a plate', but there's always so much going on, finding time to bake is almost impossible.  Now is a great time to do some bulk baking and pop it in the freezer.  That way you'll always have something on hand for those Christmas parties or unexpected guests.

from Tonic magazine by EXULT

Coping with the Silly Season - A - Ask for the Deadline

At this time of the year every deadline seems to be 'by Christmas', but chances are some deadlines are more flexible than this if you ask.  Work out which tasks have a firm deadline and worry about those things first.  If you complete the extra jobs before your holiday break, great - but don't put yourself under extra pressure for jobs that can wait.

from Tonic magazine by EXULT

Wednesday's Word of the Week - Jesus Honours You

You are valuable just because you exist! Remember that the next time some trickster tries to hang a bargain basement price tag on your self-worth.

Just think about the way Jesus honors you—and smile! I do. I smile because I know I don’t deserve a love like that. None of us do.

When you get right down to it, any contribution any of us makes is pretty puny. All of us, even the purest of us, deserve heaven about as much as that crook on the cross did.

It makes me smile to think there’s a grinning thief walking the golden streets of heaven who knows more about grace than a thousand theologians.

No one else would have given the thief on the cross a prayer. But in the end that is all he had. And in the end, that is all it took!

No wonder they call Jesus the Saviour. 

From Cast of Characters by Max Lucado

Toolbox Tuesday - Friends with a Columnist

20. Become Friends with a Columnist

If you look in your local newspaper you’ll see that there are weekly columns which focus on various aspects of your community. While all local papers are slightly different, chances are you will find one on the arts, sport and education, and the authors are likely to be ordinary people who are involved in these sectors.

Make friends with the columnist who discusses issues relating to your organisation. Feed them information about what your organisation is doing, and what events you may have coming up. They are always hungry for issues to discuss, so you will be doing them a favour by keeping them in the loop.

Wednesday's Word of the Week - We Are Valuable

Value is now measured by two criteria: appearance and performance. Where does that leave the ugly or uneducated? Where hope does that offer the unborn child? The aged? The handicapped? Not much at all. We become nameless numbers on mislaid lists.

This is man’s value system. But it is not God’s. His plan is much brighter. In God’s book man is heading somewhere. He has an amazing destiny.

We’re being prepared to walk down the church aisle and become the bride of Jesus. We’re going to live with him. Share the throne with him. We count. We’re valuable.

Jesus’ love does not depend on what we do for him. If there was anything that Jesus wanted everyone to understand it was this: A person is worth something simply because he is a person. That’s why Jesus treated people the way he did.

You have value simply because you are!

You are His.

From Cast of Characters by Max Lucado

Toolbox Tuesday - Enter Awards

19. Enter Awards

Entering awards is a great way to put the spotlight on your organisation and the people within it. Whether it’s business awards, volunteer awards, community spirit awards or something else, simply by entering you are saying to the community ‘we believe we are good at what we do, and we are prepared to stand up to scrutiny’.

The awards themselves always bring a degree of publicity, so make sure you piggy-back on that publicity and tell your own story about why you are entering. Whether you win or not, your willingness to be scrutinised brings valuable credibility.

To find awards offered in your region check with your local council and Chamber of Commerce.

Wednesday's Word of the Week - Make a Choice

Maybe your past isn’t much to brag about. Maybe you’ve seen raw evil—and now you have to make a choice. Do you rise above the past and make a difference? Or do you remain controlled by the past and make excuses?

Healthy bodies. Sharp minds. But retired dreams. Back and forth they rock in the chair of regret. Lean closely and you’ll hear them.

If only I’d been born somewhere else. . .

If only I’d been treated fairly. . .

If only I’d had more opportunities. . .if only. . .

Put down the scrapbook of your life and pick up the Bible. Read Jesus’ words in John 3:6: “Human life comes from human parents but spiritual life comes from the Spirit.”

God has not left you adrift on a sea of heredity. You have a choice in the path you take.

Choose well!

From Cast of Characters by Max Lucado

Toolbox Tuesday - Name Badges

18. Wear Branded Name Badges

I know it sounds incredibly simplistic, but the simple act of wearing a branded name badge can spark conversation about your organisation. You never know who you might meet and how they may be able to help. A branded name badge is the easiest introduction you can give.

Wednesday's Word of the Week - Worth Saving

No one believed in people more than Jesus did. He saw something in Peter worth developing, in the adulterous woman worth forgiving, and in John worth harnessing.

He saw something in the thief on the cross, and what he saw was worth saving. And in the life of a wild-eyed, bloodthirsty extremist, He saw the apostle of grace. He believed in Saul.

Don’t give up on your Saul. When others write him off, give him another chance. Stay strong. Call him brother. Call her sister. It’s too soon to throw in the towel. Talk to your Saul about Jesus, and pray.

God is at work behind the scenes. And remember this: God never sends you where he hasn’t already been. By the time you reach your Saul, who knows what you’ll find.

God used Saul, who became Paul, to touch the world.

Has God given you a Saul?

From Cast of Characters by Max Lucado

Toolbox Tuesday - Events Websites

17. Use Events Websites

There are literally hundreds of websites which will promote your event free of charge – all you have to do is submit the details. Depending on the site, you can list anything from fundraisers through to conferences, weekly programmes or one off community events. Listing your events can take time, but it is worth it. Perhaps you can find a volunteer to take regular responsibility for this task?

Useful Events Websites
The following websites offer opportunities for community groups to promote themselves and their events. Most of the sites can help you out in more than one way – so browse through the list and see what each site can offer you.

www.exult.co.nz
www.community.net.nz
www.webhealth.co.nz
www.newzealandnz.co.nz
www.maori.org.nz
www.yourevents.co.nz
www.communityconnect.co.nz
www.nzlive.co.nz
www.eventfinder.co.nz
www.sportevent.co.nz
www.te.co.nz/community/events
www.motorsportevent.co.nz
www.fourcorners.co.nz
www.viewchristchurch.co.nz
www.bethere.co.nz (Canterbury Region)
www.wellingtonnz.com/events
www.wotzon.com
www.feelinggreat.co.nz (Wellington Region)
www.gisbornenz.com/events (Gisborne / East Coast Region)
www.hamiltonevents.co.nz
www.eastlandnz.com/events
www.ashburtondistrictevents.co.nz
www.viewdunedin.co.nz

Most local councils also offer Event Calendars and links through to local community groups. To
find your local council website visit www.localcouncils.govt.nz

Motivation Monday - Priorities

I always say to God 'If you going to tell me something, tell me more than once - so I get the message'.  Even though I've heard it many times before, and read and/or demonstrated it to my pioneer girls before, the below bit of wisdom has come at me a few ways the last week or so.  In our GB newsrap mag, then a colleague emails it to me.  What made me really think about it was a colleague who passed away too soon, taken just before he retired, before he went on an advanture in a caravan that he and his wife had always wanted to do.

God.  Thanks.  I got it.  Loud and clear.  Priorities.  Going to get it sorted!


"When things in your life seem almost too much to handle, when 24 hours in a day are not enough, remember the mayonnaise jar and the 2 Beers:

A professor stood before his philosophy class and had some items in front of him. When the class began, he wordlessly picked up a very large and empty mayonnaise jar and proceeded to fill it with golf balls. He then asked the students if the jar was full. They agreed that it was.

The professor then picked up a box of pebbles and poured them into the jar. He shook the jar lightly. The pebbles rolled into the open areas between the golf balls. He then asked the students again if the jar was full. They agreed it was.

The professor next picked up a box of sand and poured it into the jar. Of course, the sand filled up everything else. He asked once more if the jar was full.. The students responded with a unanimous 'yes.'

The professor then produced two Beers from under the table and poured the entire contents into the jar effectively filling the empty space between the sand.The students laughed..

'Now,' said the professor as the laughter subsided, 'I want you to recognize that this jar represents your life. The golf balls are the important things---your family, your children, your health, your friends and your favorite passions---and if everything else was lost and only they remained, your life would still be full. The pebbles are the other things that matter like your job, your house and your car.. The sand is everything else---the small stuff.

'If you put the sand into the jar first,' he continued, 'there is no room for the pebbles or the golf balls. The same goes for life.

If you spend all your time and energy on the small stuff you will never have room for the things that are important to you.

Pay attention to the things that are critical to your happiness.

Spend time with your children. Spend time with your parents. Visit with grandparents. Take your spouse out to dinner. Play another 18. There will always be time to clean the house and mow the lawn.

Take care of the golf balls first---the things that really matter. Set your priorities. The rest is just sand.

One of the students raised her hand and inquired what the Beer represented. The professor smiled and said, 'I'm glad you asked.' The Beer just shows you that no matter how full your life may seem, there's always room for a couple of Beers with a friend."

Anonymous

Wednesdays Word of the Week - To Know the Heart of the Pilot

Three passengers share a row of seats in an airplane. As the plane is taxiing for takeoff, their conversation turns to the topic of the airplane pilot.

Stunningly, passenger 'A' doesn't believe one exists. 'No one flies the plane. We are guided by a computer system in the terminal. This plane is an occupied drone. Why should I believe otherwise? The cockpit door is closed. Who can know? There is no pilot.'

Passenger 'B' disagrees. 'Oh, there is a pilot. Someone sits at the controls of the plane. But, once we take off, he takes a nap. He gets the plane in the air and then goes to sleep.'

The third passenger is shocked by what she hears. 'You don't know what you are talking about. First, there is a pilot. Second, the pilot is alert, competent and kind. I know; he is my husband. He is seasoned and sensitive and has every intention of a successful flight. We are in good hands.'

Three passengers. Three opinions. A plane with no pilot. A plane with a disengaged pilot. A plane with a seasoned and concerned pilot. Fast forward a few minutes. Turbulence shakes the plane like popcorn in a paper bag. Will the three passengers experience the flight in the same way? Of the three travelers, which is most prone to stay calm?

Nothing is more important than the right view of God. Nothing. I've seen the wealthy and highly educated crumple like cowards at the face of death. I've seen the simple and humble take their final breath with a smile and a song. The difference? They knew the Pilot.

You need to know the heart of the pilot. That is why the story of Jesus is in the Bible. He is the only picture of God ever taken. To know Jesus, is to know God. To know God is to know: this flight gets bumpy, but the Pilot? He knows how to get us home.

Max Lucado

Toolbox Tuesday - Become the Expert

16. Become the Expert

The media are always looking for ‘experts’ to comment on different stories, and if you’re working in the non-profit sector you are an expert on something! Think about what your organisation does and the area you feel comfortable commenting on, and then let your local media know. Whenever they have a story on your topic, you could be called to comment. It’s a great way to get publicity without having to come up with the press release.

The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People - part 7

Habit 7: Sharpen the Saw

Sharpen the Saw means preserving and enhancing the greatest asset you have--you. It means having a balanced program for self-renewal in the four areas of your life: physical, social/emotional, mental, and spiritual. Here are some examples of activities:

Physical:                  Beneficial eating, exercising, and resting
Social/Emotional:     Making social and meaningful connections with others
Mental:                    Learning, reading, writing, and teaching
Spiritual:                 Spending time in nature, expanding spiritual self through meditation, music, art, prayer, or service

As you renew yourself in each of the four areas, you create growth and change in your life. Sharpen the Saw keeps you fresh so you can continue to practice the other six habits. You increase your capacity to produce and handle the challenges around you. Without this renewal, the body becomes weak, the mind mechanical, the emotions raw, the spirit insensitive, and the person selfish. Not a pretty picture, is it?

Feeling good doesn't just happen. Living a life in balance means taking the necessary time to renew yourself. It's all up to you. You can renew yourself through relaxation. Or you can totally burn yourself out by overdoing everything. You can pamper yourself mentally and spiritually. Or you can go through life oblivious to your well-being. You can experience vibrant energy. Or you can procrastinate and miss out on the benefits of good health and exercise. You can revitalize yourself and face a new day in peace and harmony. Or you can wake up in the morning full of apathy because your get-up-and-go has got-up-and-gone. Just remember that every day provides a new opportunity for renewal--a new opportunity to recharge yourself instead of hitting the wall. All it takes is the desire, knowledge, and skill.

by Stephen Covey

The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People - part 6

Habit 6: Synergize

To put it simply, synergy means "two heads are better than one." Synergize is the habit of creative cooperation. It is teamwork, open-mindedness, and the adventure of finding new solutions to old problems. But it doesn't just happen on its own. It's a process, and through that process, people bring all their personal experience and expertise to the table. Together, they can produce far better results that they could individually. Synergy lets us discover jointly things we are much less likely to discover by ourselves. It is the idea that the whole is greater than the sum of the parts. One plus one equals three, or six, or sixty--you name it.

When people begin to interact together genuinely, and they're open to each other's influence, they begin to gain new insight. The capability of inventing new approaches is increased exponentially because of differences.

Valuing differences is what really drives synergy. Do you truly value the mental, emotional, and psychological differences among people? Or do you wish everyone would just agree with you so you could all get along? Many people mistake uniformity for unity; sameness for oneness. One word--boring! Differences should be seen as strengths, not weaknesses. They add zest to life.

by Stephen Covey

The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People - part 5

Habit 5: Seek First to Understand, Then to Be Understood

Communication is the most important skill in life. You spend years learning how to read and write, and years learning how to speak. But what about listening? What training have you had that enables you to listen so you really, deeply understand another human being? Probably none, right?

If you're like most people, you probably seek first to be understood; you want to get your point across. And in doing so, you may ignore the other person completely, pretend that you're listening, selectively hear only certain parts of the conversation or attentively focus on only the words being said, but miss the meaning entirely. So why does this happen? Because most people listen with the intent to reply, not to understand. You listen to yourself as you prepare in your mind what you are going to say, the questions you are going to ask, etc. You filter everything you hear through your life experiences, your frame of reference. You check what you hear against your autobiography and see how it measures up. And consequently, you decide prematurely what the other person means before he/she finishes communicating. Do any of the following sound familiar?

"Oh, I know just how you feel. I felt the same way." "I had that same thing happen to me." "Let me tell you what I did in a similar situation."

Because you so often listen autobiographically, you tend to respond in one of four ways:

Evaluating:     You judge and then either agree or disagree.
Probing:          You ask questions from your own frame of reference.
Advising:         You give counsel, advice, and solutions to problems.
Interpreting:   You analyze others' motives and behaviors based on your own experiences.

You might be saying, "Hey, now wait a minute. I'm just trying to relate to the person by drawing on my own experiences. Is that so bad?" In some situations, autobiographical responses may be appropriate, such as when another person specifically asks for help from your point of view or when there is already a very high level of trust in the relationship.

by Stephen Covey

The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People - part 4

Habit 4: Think Win-Win

 

Think Win-Win isn't about being nice, nor is it a quick-fix technique. It is a character-based code for human interaction and collaboration.

 

Most of us learn to base our self-worth on comparisons and competition. We think about succeeding in terms of someone else failing--that is, if I win, you lose; or if you win, I lose. Life becomes a zero-sum game. There is only so much pie to go around, and if you get a big piece, there is less for me; it's not fair, and I'm going to make sure you don't get anymore. We all play the game, but how much fun is it really?

 

Win-win sees life as a cooperative arena, not a competitive one. Win-win is a frame of mind and heart that constantly seeks mutual benefit in all human interactions. Win-win means agreements or solutions are mutually beneficial and satisfying. We both get to eat the pie, and it tastes pretty darn good!

A person or organization that approaches conflicts with a win-win attitude possesses three vital character traits:

1. Integrity: sticking with your true feelings, values, and commitments
2. Maturity: expressing your ideas and feelings with courage and consideration for the ideas and feelings of others
3. Abundance Mentality: believing there is plenty for everyone

Many people think in terms of either/or: either you're nice or you're tough. Win-win requires that you be both. It is a balancing act between courage and consideration. To go for win-win, you not only have to be empathic, but you also have to be confident. You not only have to be considerate and sensitive, you also have to be brave. To do that--to achieve that balance between courage and consideration--is the essence of real maturity and is fundamental to win-win.

by Stephen Covey

 

Wednesdays Word of the Week - Always Praying

Early Christians were urged by the apostle Paul to 'pray without ceasing.' In Romans 12:12, Paul said: 'always be prayerful'. And in Ephesians 6:18, to 'pray at all times and on every occasion.'

Unceasing prayer may sound complicated, but it needn't be!

As you stand in line to register your car, think, 'Thank you, Lord, for being here.' In the grocery store as you shop. As you load the dishwasher, worship your Maker.

Brother Lawrence was a well-known saint who called himself the 'lord of pots and pans.' He wrote: 'The time of business does not with me differ from the time of prayer; and in the noise and clatter of my kitchen, I possess God in as great tranquility as if I were upon my knees at the blessed sacrament.'

Though a rookie in the League of Unceasing Prayer, I sure enjoy the result! I think you will too.

From 'Come Thirsty' by Max Lucado

The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People - part 3

Habit 3: Put First Things First

To live a more balanced existence, you have to recognize that not doing everything that comes along is okay. There's no need to overextend yourself. All it takes is realizing that it's all right to say no when necessary and then focus on your highest priorities.

Habit 1 says, "You're in charge. You're the creator." Being proactive is about choice. Habit 2 is the first, or mental, creation. Beginning with the End in Mind is about vision. Habit 3 is the second creation, the physical creation. This habit is where Habits 1 and 2 come together. It happens day in and day out, moment-by-moment. It deals with many of the questions addressed in the field of time management. But that's not all it's about. Habit 3 is about life management as well--your purpose, values, roles, and priorities. What are "first things?" First things are those things you, personally, find of most worth. If you put first things first, you are organizing and managing time and events according to the personal priorities you established in Habit 2.

by Stephen Covey

Toolbox Tuesday - Window Display

15. Make a Window Display

If you are lucky enough to have an office with a window frontage and heavy foot traffic, make sure you use the space to promote what you do. If you’re like most non-profits and lack that luxury, approach local retailers and ask if you could use their window as a showcase from time-to-time. (You’ll get the most Yes’s from businesses who share the same target market as your organisation.)

When creating your display, keep in mind the one key message you are trying to get across and keep it simple.  Are you looking for volunteers, promoting a new programme, trying to sell tickets to an event, or something else?  Remember, when it comes to displays, often less is more.

The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People - part 2

Habit 2: Begin with the End in Mind

So, what do you want to be when you grow up? That question may appear a little trite, but think about it for a moment. Are you--right now--who you want to be, what you dreamed you'd be, doing what you always wanted to do? Be honest. Sometimes people find themselves achieving victories that are empty--successes that have come at the expense of things that were far more valuable to them. If your ladder is not leaning against the right wall, every step you take gets you to the wrong place faster.

Habit 2 is based on imagination--the ability to envision in your mind what you cannot at present see with your eyes. It is based on the principle that all things are created twice. There is a mental (first) creation, and a physical (second) creation. The physical creation follows the mental, just as a building follows a blueprint. If you don't make a conscious effort to visualize who you are and what you want in life, then you empower other people and circumstances to shape you and your life by default. It's about connecting again with your own uniqueness and then defining the personal, moral, and ethical guidelines within which you can most happily express and fulfill yourself. Begin with the End in Mind means to begin each day, task, or project with a clear vision of your desired direction and destination, and then continue by flexing your proactive muscles to make things happen.

One of the best ways to incorporate Habit 2 into your life is to develop a Personal Mission Statement. It focuses on what you want to be and do. It is your plan for success. It reaffirms who you are, puts your goals in focus, and moves your ideas into the real world. Your mission statement makes you the leader of your own life. You create your own destiny and secure the future you envision.

by Stephen Covey

The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People - part 1

Habit 1 : Be Proactive

Habit 1 : Be Proactive Your life doesn't just "happen." Whether you know it or not, it is carefully designed by you. The choices, after all, are yours. You choose happiness. You choose sadness. You choose decisiveness. You choose ambivalence. You choose success. You choose failure. You choose courage. You choose fear. Just remember that every moment, every situation, provides a new choice. And in doing so, it gives you a perfect opportunity to do things differently to produce more positive results.

Habit 1: Be Proactive is about taking responsibility for your life. You can't keep blaming everything on your parents or grandparents. Proactive people recognize that they are "response-able." They don't blame genetics, circumstances, conditions, or conditioning for their behavior. They know they choose their behavior. Reactive people, on the other hand, are often affected by their physical environment. They find external sources to blame for their behavior. If the weather is good, they feel good. If it isn't, it affects their attitude and performance, and they blame the weather. All of these external forces act as stimuli that we respond to. Between the stimulus and the response is your greatest power--you have the freedom to choose your response. One of the most important things you choose is what you say. Your language is a good indicator of how you see yourself. A proactive person uses proactive language--I can, I will, I prefer, etc. A reactive person uses reactive language--I can't, I have to, if only. Reactive people believe they are not responsible for what they say and do--they have no choice.

Instead of reacting to or worrying about conditions over which they have little or no control, proactive people focus their time and energy on things they can control. The problems, challenges, and opportunities we face fall into two areas--Circle of Concern and Circle of Influence.

Proactive people focus their efforts on their Circle of Influence. They work on the things they can do something about: health, children, problems at work. Reactive people focus their efforts in the Circle of Concern--things over which they have little or no control: the national debt, terrorism, the weather. Gaining an awareness of the areas in which we expend our energies in is a giant step in becoming proactive.

by Stephen Covey

Wedesdays Word of the Week - Acknowledge His Presence

Do you desire power for your life? It'll come as Romans 12:18 instructs: 'As you do your part to live in peace with everyone, as much as possible.'

It'll also come as you pray!

For ten days Jesus' disciples prayed. Ten days of prayer plus a few minutes of preaching led to three thousand saved souls.

We're prone to pray for a few minutes and then preach for ten days! Not the apostles. They lingered in Jesus' presence. They never left the place of prayer.

Sound burdensome? Are you wondering, my business needs attention, my children need dinner, my bills need paying. How can I stay in one place of prayer?

Do this. Change your definition of prayer. Think of it less as an activity for God and more as an awareness of God.

Acknowledge His presence everywhere you go!

From 'Come Thirsty' by Max Lucado

Toolbox Tuesday - Blog

14. Blog

A blog is like an online journal and gives people a chance to see the human side of your organisation. You don’t have to write pages about what you had for breakfast, (although some people do), it is more an opportunity to share knowledge and resources, promote upcoming programmes or events, comment on social issues and find out how others view your organisation. The more informative and interesting your blog is, the more people will check back to see what you’re up to.

You can add a blog page to your own website, or use any one of the blogging sites on the net. I recommend www.blogger.com or www.wordpress.com

Wednesdays Word of the Week - One Scary Place

Here's a test. How far do you have to go to hear the reminder, 'Be afraid'

How near is your next; You're in trouble memo. A flip of the newspaper page? A turn of the radio dial? A glance at the Internet? According to the media the world is one scary place!

There's a stampede of fear out there. Let's not get caught in it. Let's be among those who stay calm. Acknowledge threats but refuse to be defined by them. Let's be numbered among those who hear a difference voice: God's!

Courage doesn't panic, it prays. Courage doesn't bemoan, it believes. Courage listens to the voice of God calling through Scripture, 'When reports come in of wars and rumored wars, keep your head and don't panic.'

Let not your heart be troubled.

Trust these and other words from God.

Trust God and fear less!

From 'Fearless' by Max Lucado

Toolbox Tuesday - Sponsors Newsletter

13. Use Your Sponsors Newsletter

If your sponsor has a regular newsletter which they send out to clients or customers, ask if you can have a regular column or advertisement to promote what you do. Let’s face it, if they have been willing to write you out a cheque, chances are they will be willing to give you a little space in their newsletter. This lets you reach people you wouldn’t ordinarily have contact with, and makes your sponsor look extra community focussed.

Motivation Monday - You are a Leader

I received this in my inbox in this morning and had to send it out, have a great week everyone.

 

If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more and become more, you are a leader.

John Quincy Adams, 1767-1848

 

 

Wednesdays Word of the Week - Life Stinks

Yes, life stinks. But it won't forever!

As one of my friends likes to say 'Everything will work out in the end. If it's not working out, it's not the end.'

In the meantime, don't over-react! Psalm 37:7 reminds us, 'Be still in the presence of the Lord, and wait patiently for Him to act. Don't worry about evil people who prosper or fret about their wicked schemes.'

Avoid Pollyanna optimism. But neither do we join the Chicken Little chorus of gloom and doom. 'The sky is falling.' 'The sky is falling!'

Somewhere between Pollyanna and Chicken Little, between denial and blatant panic, stands the follower of Christ.

Psalm 27:3 says, 'My heart shall not fear, though war arise against me, yes, I will be confident!?'

Confident in Him.

Max Lucado

 



Toolbox Tuesday - Newsletters

12. Send out Hard-Copy Newsletters

I am a great believer in e-letters for an instant response and little expense, but there is definitely still a place for hard-copy (printed) newsletters which can be kept and read over and over again.

Hard-copy newsletters do not have to be your main source of communication, but it is a good idea to produce one every three or four months so that your clients, members, supporters and volunteers can be kept completely up-to-date. Hard-copy newsletters allow plenty of room for details that can’t be included elsewhere, and give people something they can refer back to.

How to Write Successful Newsletters
Make sure you…

Use a professional looking design and layout. Your newsletter gives people a first impression of your entire organisation – so make sure it’s a good one. There are plenty of free templates and software available online.

Include relevant photographs. Not only will this make the newsletter look interesting, it will give the reader a chance to literally see your organisation in action.

Include information that is relevant, up to date and interesting. Keep in mind whom your readers are, and what they would be interested in. Always include a story or tip that gives people a reason to keep your newsletter stuck to the noticeboard.

Provide feedback about what has been happening in your organisation including statistics about services, clients, fundraising and large scale projects.

Give readers a human insight into your organisation by including at least one big success story about a client or member. Human stories make your organisation easier to relate to.

Remind people what your organisation is all about. Use your newsletter to let people know what your goals and visions are for the future. When people see the big picture, it helps them put everything you do into perspective.

List upcoming events, activities or fundraisers that you need support for, and be specific about the type of support you require. People are usually more willing to help if they know exactly what they are getting themselves in for.

Include a wish list for your organisation – even if some of the wishes seem a little absurd. You never know what your members or supporters have access to, and if you don’t ask, how will they know what you need?

Give people the opportunity to donate by including a donation slip in every newsletter. For best results, make sure you include tick boxes for specific amounts so that people have an idea of what you think is reasonable. If you leave the slip blank, people worry about how much to give, and end up giving nothing at all.

Motivation Monday - Dreamer

Maybe I'm a dreamer but I believe if you really want to do something then you should just go for it, because if your heart and soul and energy are into it then you're going to be successful.  If you keep looking back over your shoulder and thinking, "oh gosh, I should have done that" then you'll regret it because you are not living to your potential.

Barbara Kendall   

Wednesday's Word of the Week - A Good, Healthy Struggle

God is using your struggles to toughen you up!

It’s like viewing a movie after you’ve read the book. When something bad happens, everyone else gasps at the crisis on the screen. Not you. Why? You’ve read the book. You know how the good guy gets out of the tight spot.

God views your life with the same confidence. He’s not only read your story, he wrote it. His perspective is different, and his purpose is clear. One of God’s cures for weak faith? A good, healthy struggle.

Consider it a gift when tests and challenges come at you from all sides. Under pressure, your faith-life is forced into open and shows its true colors. Scripture says, let it do its work so you become mature and well-developed, not deficient in any way. (James 1:2-3)

Join with the Old Testament prophet Isaiah who resolved, “I will trust in him and not be afraid!” (Isaiah 12:2)

From Come Thirsty by Max Lucado

Toolbox Tuesday - Letter to the Editor

11. Write a Letter to the Editor

It is not always possible to get an article published, but it is always possible to have your say and draw attention to specific aspects of your organisation. The ‘Letters to the Editor’ page is a well read part of any newspaper, and it provides an avenue for real discussion and debate about your cause.

The best time to send a letter is when there has been a news item which relates to your organisation or the need that it meets within the community. Send a letter commenting on the item and expressing how your organisation can help, or how your organisation has been affected.

Wednesday's Word of the Week - Taking Out the Trash

Who wants to live with yesterday’s rubble? Who wants to hoard the trash of the past? You don’t, do you? Or do you?

I’m not talking about the trash in your house, but in your heart. Not the junk of papers and boxes but the remnants of anger and hurt. Do you rat-pack your pain? Amass offenses? Record slights?

A tour of your heart might be telling. A pile of rejections. Accumulated insults. No one can blame you. They’re innocence takers, promise breakers, and wound makers. They’re everywhere and you’ve had your share.

Jesus answered Peter’s question in Matthew 18:21 and 22 when he asked: “Lord, how often should I forgive someone who sins against me? Seven times?” “No, not seven times,” Jesus said. “Seventy times seven!”

Do you want to give every day a chance? Jesus says to get rid of the trash. Give the grace you’ve been given!

From Great Day Every Day by Max Lucado

Toolbox Tuesday - Sign Writing

10. Get Your Car Sign Written

Admittedly this takes a few more dollars than most of the things on this list, but it is not as expensive as most people think. Depending on the size of your car, and exactly how you want it to look, you can turn your car into a mobile billboard for about $1000. Weigh that up with the price of a newspaper advertisement, and you’ll see it’s a pretty good investment.

When deciding what you want to include on the car, remember that people won’t have time to read or remember loads of details. You want something that catches people’s eye, gives them one key message, and a website address where they can visit for more information.

Theme Thursday - World of Friends Africa - Amazing Race

Girls’ Brigade Africa Amazing Race

Week 3:

• Get girls back into teams from previous week
• Explain rules of the game

1. No running
2. Work as a team
3. No put down comments
4. Detour – choose between 2 activities (do only 1)
5. Roadblock – only one person from team does activity, different person from the team each week.
6. Idea of the game is to make it to the end, not about winning prizes.

Burkina Faso

• Tongue Twister Telephone
• In a circle in teams
• Give girls tongue twisters; to be passed onto next girl like Chinese whispers. Last girl to receive has to say to leader, if they get it right they get a point.
• Super snakes sneak silently searching supper.
• Every elephant eats eggplant each evening.
• Warthogs walk with worms without whispering.
• Six slippery snails, slid slowly seaward.
• How much wood could a wood chuck; chuck if a wood chuck could chuck wood.
• These thousand tricky tongue twisters trip off the tongue.
• Team with most points gets their BENIN – DETOUR clue.

Benin

• All members in team travel to Benin in a line and walking as if on a tightrope.
• Detour – choose between word unscramble or canoe races.
• Word Unscrammble – girls to spell out words from facts off sheet using letters; there will be no spare letters once completed.
• Canoe races – girls to make 1 canoe each, add some tape to the bottom of the canoe. Each canoe to get across the water without sinking. Girls have to blow; no hands.
• Once complete give GUINEA – ROADBLOCK clue

Guinea

• Skip backwards to Guinea
• One person is to find the ‘bug’ inside the bowl of pudding
• They are only allowed to use their mouth to get it out.
• The bug has their next clue on it; DEVOTION clue

Devotions

• As a team jump holding hands to find the cross.
• Complete the activity using the instructions on the sheet
• Give AFRICA clue

Africa

• Girls are to keep together as a team and find 15 Africa facts, these are located all around the building.
• Once complete, team can go to the pitstop.

PIT STOP!

Wednesday's Word of the Week - God is Enough

Let’s face it–anxiety or worry have no advantages! They ruin our health, rob us of joy, and change nothing! Our day stands no chance against the terrorists of the Land of Anxiety.

But Christ offers a worry-bazooka. Remember how He taught us to pray? “Give us this day our daily bread. Matthew 6:11” This simple sentence unveils God’s provision plan: live one day at a time.

Worry gives small problems big shadows. Corrie ten Boom said, “Worry does not empty tomorrow of its sorrows; it empties today of its strength.” And Romans 8:28 affirms: “Every detail in our lives of love for God is worked into something good.”

Most anxiety stems, not from what we need, but from what we want. Philippians 4:4 says, “delight yourselves in the Lord, yes, find your joy in Him at all times!”

If God is enough, you’ll always have enough!

From Great Day Every Day by Max Lucado

Toolbox Tuesday - Guest Speaker

9. Be a Guest Speaker

Without a doubt, the best way to engage people in your organisation is to speak to the face-to-face. Regardless of who the audience is, being a guest speaker allows people to see, hear and feel the passion you have for your organisation. That excitement and commitment helps build excitement and commitment in them.

To achieve the most impact in your talk, make sure you tell real stories about how your organisation has benefited the community. Make it personal and focus on the stories, not the statistics. By all means use power point as a tool, but avoid simply reading screens of information – it’s boring and forgettable.

Local service groups such as Lions and Rotary are always on the look out for interesting speakers. You can find your local clubs by visiting the following websites:

Lions Clubs
Rotary
Round Table New Zealand
Zonta New Zealand
Kiwanis International

Theme Thursday - World of Friends Africa - Amazing Race

Girls’ Brigade Africa Amazing Race

Week 2:

• Get girls back into teams from previous week 
• Explain rules of the game 

1. No running 
2. Work as a team 
3. No put down comments 
4. Detour – choose between 2 activities (do only 1) 
5. Roadblock – only one person from team does activity, different person from the team each week. 
6. Idea of the game is to make it to the end, not about winning prizes. 

Africa

• ‘Water’ Relays 
• Line up in teams 
• First relay – bucket balance, girls balance bucket on head to chair and back again 
• Second relay – Camel relay race, girls on all fours with upside down bucket on their back, balance bucket on back to chair and back. 
• Team with most points gets their TANZANIA – DETOUR clue. 

Tanzania

• All members in team travel to Tanzania leap frog style 
• Detour – choose between cooking or singing 
• Cooking – girls to cook Tanzanian Baked Bananas, and eat 
• Singing – girls to learn words to Toto off by heart and sing 
• Once complete give NIGERIA clue 

Nigeria

• Travel as a human knot to Nigeria 
• One person is chosen to have their face painted, another person is the painter 
• The rest of the team is to tell the painter how to paint the persons face 
• Once finished, give DEVOTION clue 

Devotions

• Find the cross 
• Complete the activity using the instructions on the sheet 
• Give KENYA clue 

Kenya

• Girls to travel acting and sounding like monkeys to Kenya 
• Girls to make one bracelet each using beads. 
• Once complete, team can go to the pitstop. 

PIT STOP!

Wednesday's Word of the Week - The Secret of Success

An accomplished Ironman triathlete told me the secret of his success. He said, “You last the long race by running short ones.” Don’t swim 2.4 miles; just swim to the next buoy. Rather than bike 112 miles, ride 10, take a break, and bike 10 more. Never tackle more than the challenge ahead.

Didn’t Jesus offer the same counsel? He said in Matthew 6:34, “So don’t ever worry about tomorrow. After all, tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.”

When asked how he managed to write so many books, the author explained that he’d never written a book. All he did was write one page a day.

Face challenges in stages. You can’t control your temper forever, but you can control it for the next hour.

Remember, you last the long race by running the short ones!

From Great Day Every Day by Max Lucado

Toolbox Tuesday - Online Social Networking

8. Use Online Social Networking

If you are not using online social media yet, chances are it’s for one of two reasons – either you don’t know how to or you don’t understand why you should bother. Trust me – it’s worth overcoming them both.

Social media sites such as Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn allow you to keep in touch with lots of people all at once. You can keep clients, supporters, sponsors and volunteers up to date with what you’re up to, all while marketing to new stakeholders at the same time. Just like ‘real-life’ networking, social media provides an opportunity to make new contacts, share resources and develop working relationships with people you may not otherwise have the chance to meet.

How to Get Started with Twitter

1. Go to www.twitter.com and click the ‘Get Started’ button. Simply follow the instructions to ‘sign up’.
2. Add a photograph or a logo, so that people know your Twitter account is for real. People want to know the conversation is genuine.
3. Make sure you fill in the one line bio, so that people can instantly tell if they want to ‘follow’ your conversation. If you don’t fill in the bio, you’ll get ignored like a wallflower at a party.
4. Search for people you would like to have a conversation with. Use key words that relate to your area of interest eg. autism, schools, social services, New Zealand. When you find people of interest click ‘follow’.
5. Write an update. To start with your updates may be simple things like ‘Learning to use Twitter. Any tips appreciated’. As you learn more, you will use your updates to have more meaningful conversations.
6. Search for Kerri Tilby and then follow. You’ll be able to follow her conversations, and get some ideas for making the most of your own Twitter account.

Once you’ve started ‘Twittering’ there are some things you will want to know…

Yes, you do only have 140 characters per update (or ‘tweet’ as they are known.) You can get around this by pasting in a link to your website or blog, so that people can click through for more information. It is a great way to drive traffic to your website.

If you want to reply to somebody’s ‘tweet’, simply hover your mouse over the right hand side of their update, and a reply button will appear. Click on reply, and then type your update as usual. Your update will appear in your own profile, as well as in the ‘@ tab’ on the other persons page.

If you are following heaps of people, it’s easy to miss comments that have been directed at you. Click on the @ tab on the right hand side of your home page, and you’ll see any ‘tweets’ that have been made with your name in it. Always acknowledge the writer – this is their way of trying to start a conversation with you.

If there is a particular ‘tweet’ you want to refer back to, click the star button and it will automatically save it into your Twitter favourites.

A ‘tweet’ with RT and then @someone is known as a ‘re-tweet’. That means the person tweeting the information is simply repeating something that someone else has said. If you provide meaningful content in your ‘tweets’, they will often be ‘re-tweeted’. It is a great way to be introduced to ‘followers’ outside of your existing circle.

Theme Thursday - World of Friends Africa - Amazing Race

Girls Brigade Africa Amazing Race

Week 1:

• Line up oldest to youngest and number off to form teams of 4/5 girls.
• 5 minutes to choose team name and write it down.
• Explain rules of the game / get girls to suggest rules

1. No running
2. Work as a team
3. No put down comments
4. Detour – choose between 2 activities (do only 1)
5. Roadblock – only one person from team does activity, different person from the team each week.
6. Idea of the game is to make it to the end, not about winning prizes.

Africa

• Animal Alphabet game
• Give each team plenty of letters of the alphabet.
• Leader calls out the name of an animal and each team must spell the animals name and put their hands up when completed.
• Soccer relay – with balloons
• Team with most points gets their KENYA – DETOUR clue.

Kenya

• All members in team to crawl to Kenya
• Detour – choose between words or wisdom
• Words – find all animals in word search (must work as a team)
• Wisdom – work out the animals in the crossword (must work as a team)
• Put team name on sheets when finished, give SOUTH AFRICA – ROAD BLOCK clue

South Africa

• Travel blind holding hands, one person in team leading the way to the kitchen.
• Team to make maize meal and a cup of tea.
• One person to eat maize meal and drink tea.
• Once finished, give BOTSWANA clue

Botswana

• Hope holding hands to Botswana
• Using 1 sheet of sand paper each and crayons, each team member to make a rock cave painting, stick on the walls.
• Give CREATION DEVOTION clue

Creation

• Find the cross
• Look up and read together as a team Genesis chapter 1:1 – chapter 2:3
• Use template to create origami

PIT STOP!

Wednesday's Word of the Week - He Is Able

If your Father is God and you have a problem on your hands, what do you do? Scripture tells us what to do.

Is your problem too large? Ephesians 3:20 says, “God is able to accomplish infinitely more than we might ask or think.”

Is your need too great? 2 Corinthians 9:8 reminds us, “God is able to provide you with every blessing in abundance.”

Is your temptation too severe? Hebrews 2:18 says, “God is able to help us when we are being tested.”

Is your future too frightening? Jude 24 tells us, “God is able to keep you from falling away and will bring you with great joy into his glorious presence without a single fault.”

Make these verses part of your daily diet. God is able to accomplish, provide, help, save, keep, subdue. He is able to do what you can’t. Go to Him!

From Great Day Every Day by Max Lucado

Toolbox Tuesday - Donation Boxes

7. Put Donation Boxes in Local Shops

Donation boxes are not just about raising money, they are about raising profile as well. A simple information card on top of the box helps spread the word about your organisation, programmes and projects. Even if people don’t make a donation there and then, they still become aware of who you are and what you do.

Motivation Monday - Attitude

The longer I live, the more I realise the impact of attitude of life.  Attitude to me, is more important than the past, than education, than money, than circumstances, than failures, than successes, than what other people think or say or do.

It is more important than appearance, giftedness or skills.  It will make or break a company... a church... a home.

The remarkable thing is we have a choice every day regarding the attitude we will embrace for that day.  We cannot change our past, we cannot change the fact that people act in a certain way.  We cannot change the inevitable.  The only thing we can do is play on the one string we have, and that is our Attitude.

I am convinced that life is 10% what happens to me and 90% how I react to it.
And so it is with you... we are in charge of our Attitudes.

Charles Swindoll

Wednesday's Word of the Week - Seeing You

Why does God love you so much?

For the same reason the artist loves his paintings. You are His idea!

Ephesians 2:10 confirms that we are “God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago.”

In the movie Hook, Peter Pan had become old and looked nothing like the Peter the lost boys knew. In the midst of the boys shouting that this was NOT Peter, one of the smallest boys pulled him down to his level. He places his hands on Peter’s face, moved the skin around and reshaped his face. The boy looked into Peter’s eyes and said, “There you are, Peter!”

Shh. Listen. Do you hear?

God is saying the same words to you. There you are! There you are!

He’s seeing you and loving the you he sees.

From Fearless by Max Lucado

Toolbox Tuesday - Join a Business Networking Group

6. Join a Business Networking Group

If you want to meet potential sponsors, you need to go where potential sponsors hang out. A business networking group allows you to meet face-to-face with potential supporters, and gives you the opportunity to develop a relationship with them before you ask for support. It’s much harder for potential sponsors to say NO to a friend – and a business networking group is where friendships are made.

There are plenty of business networking groups to choose from, but a good place to start is by phoning your local Chamber of Commerce.

Motivation Monday - In Honour of our Olympic Athletes

It is not the critic who counts; not the man who points out how the strong man stumbles, or where the doer of deeds could have done them better.  The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood, who strives valiantly; who errs and comes short again and again; because there is not effort without error and shortcomings; but who does actually strive to do the deed; who knows the great enthusiasm, the great devotion, who spends himself in a worthy cause, who at the best knows in the end the triumph of high achievement and who at the worst, if he fails, at least he fails while daring greatly.  So that his place shall never be with cold and timid souls who know neither victory nor defeat.

Theodore Roosevelt

Wednesday's Word of the Week - Vanderlei de Lima (2004 Olympics Athens)

At five feet, five inches, Vanderlei de Lima is shorter than some fifth graders. Don’t let his size fool you. The body may be small, but the heart is bigger than the Olympic Stadium in Athens. That’s where he received the 2004 bronze medal for the marathon.

He should’ve won the gold. He was leading when a deranged protester hurled himself into the runner–forcing him off course. De Lima resumed the race. But in the process he lost his rhythm, precious seconds, and his position. But he entered the stadium punching the air with his fists, both arms extended, weaving for joy!

I’m taking notes on this guy! He reminds me of another runner. Paul, the imprisoned apostle. His chains never come off. The guards never leave. He may appear to be bumped off track, but he’s actually right on target. Christ is preached. The mission is being accomplished.

Run the race!

Paul said, “I do all this for the sake of the gospel, that I may share in its blessings. Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize. I Corinthians 9:23-24”

From Great Day Every Day by Max Lucado

Toolbox Tuesday - Write a Press Release

5. Write a Press Release

Whether you’ve met the Editor or not, you should still write regular press releases and send them to all your local media. Remember to make the press release newsworthy and if possible include a photograph to capture the imagination.

Writing a Successful Press Release
Make sure you…

Find a newsworthy angle to your story and focus on that. Perhaps it is the first, last, oldest, youngest, biggest or smallest event of its kind. Is there a celebrity involved or do you have a catch phrase that gives your event or project a special twist? How is your organisation being affected by current events?

Keep it clear and easy to read. Head it up with ‘Press Release for Immediate Use’ and the date, and always use an Arial font that is at least 12 point. Double space your press release so that the journalist can scan it easily and has room to add comments if necessary.

Write a single line headline that says what your story is about. If you are sending your story to local media, make sure you have the word ‘local’ in the headline.

Keep it brief. You should be able to capture your story in less than a page, so stick to the point.

Copy your press release into the body of your email, rather than adding it as an attachment. This allows the reporter to quickly scan your story immediately on opening.

Add a human touch. A news story should look like someone has been interviewed, so include some quotes either from yourself, or another member of your organisation. If you are quoting somebody else, make sure you have their permission.

Double check accuracy. Before sending your press release, go back and double check all the details, including dates, times, venue and the spelling of names.

Include contact details of someone who can provide more information at the bottom of the page. Make sure that person knows to expect a call. If appropriate, provide a website address where the journalist can go for more information about your organisation.

Have photographs available. A good photograph is sometimes harder to resist than a good story, so let the press know if you have photographs available, or if there are photo opportunities coming up. Photographs of people are most attractive to local newspapers, especially if the people are actively doing something.

Make sure you send the right release to the right people. Develop a relationship with the reporter who covers your area of interest. It’s often not what you know, but who you know.

Wednesday's Word of the Week - Important But Not Essential

Do you want to snatch a day from the grip of boredom? Do overly generous deeds, acts beyond reimbursement. Kindness without compensation. Here’s another idea…Get over yourself!

Sound too harsh?

Well, Moses did. Numbers 12:3 says, he was a “very humble man, more humble than anyone else on the face of the earth.”

Mary did. When Jesus called her womb His home, she did not boast; she simple confessed: “I am the Lord’s maid, ready to serve.”

Most of all–Jesus did. Jesus chose the servants’ quarters. Can’t we?

We’re important but not essential, valuable but not indispensable. We have a song to sing, but we’re not the featured act. God is!

He did well before our births; he’ll do fine after our deaths. He started it all, sustains it all, and will bring it all to a glorious climax!

From Great Day Every Day by Max Lucado

Toolbox Tuesday - Introduce Yourself

4. Introduce Yourself to your Local News Editor

Newspapers receive literally thousands of press releases every week, and sometimes the difference between getting published or not is simply ‘relationship’. Get in contact with the editor of your local newspaper and invite them to have a coffee and learn more about your organisation. Be aware that editors are incredibly busy people, so be prepared to meet them at a time that suits them – not you!

Wednesday's Word of the Week - I Messed Up

We’ve all messed up. Said the wrong words, loved the wrong person, reacted the wrong way…walked when we should have waited, indulged when we should have resisted.

You’ll mess up more if you let yesterday’s mistakes sabotage today’s attitude!

The Bible says, God’s mercies are new every morning. Receive them. Learn a lesson from them.

Thunderbolts of regret can ignite and consume you. What makes the difference? Counteract them with downpours of God’s grace, daily washings of forgiveness.

Once a year won’t do. Once a month is insufficient. Sporadic mistings leave you combustible. Weekly showers leave you dry. You need a solid soaking every day!

Lamentations 3:22-23 says “The Lord’s love never ends; His mercies never stop. They are new every morning.”

What a gift He has given to you. What more do you need?

From Great Day Every Day by Max Lucado

Toolbox Tuesday - Update Your Website

3. Update Your Website

If you have a website already, then go through it page by page and remove any out-of-date information. An outof-date website suggests to potential supporters or clients that you are no longer active in your community. You want your website to portray what is happening in your organisation right now. Most importantly make sure your contact details are correct so people can get in touch with you if they need to.

Theme Thursday - World of Friends Africa

Yes! World of Friends is back for another year!  This year we're doing Africa and its for all ages.  We'll be starting by putting together another Amazing Race.  We'll be having our first week racing next week - so check back next Thursday for resources :)

Toolbox Tuesday - Get a Website

2. Get a Website
If you don’t have a website already, you are missing real opportunities to connect with potential clients, supporters, sponsors and volunteers. Getting a website established doesn’t have to be expensive; in fact, there are several ways you can create an effective website without major expense.

For an up-to-date list of free or nearly-free website options, check out the members section of www.exult.co.nz

Setting Up an Effective Website
Make sure you…

Know exactly what you want your website to achieve eg. recruiting new members, providing support and information, promoting events, securing sponsorship. If you don’t know your reason for having a website, it’s hard to know whether it’s doing its job. You could be spending a lot of time and effort for nothing.

Have a professional looking design which follows a standard website layout and includes all your usual branding. If your website looks amateur with tacky add-ons and fancy flashing monkeys, people will at best feel frustrated, and at worst, question your credibility.

Scale photographs and images so that your website loads quickly. If your site takes more than 10 seconds to load, you will lose valuable visitors.

Know who your users are likely to be and cater for their needs. For example, if you are targeting an older audience, you may want to use a larger than normal font or install an audio viewer.

Include testimonials from satisfied clients, members, supporters and sponsors. It’s one thing for you to tell people how wonderful you are, but if someone else does, it really counts!

Show people the human face of your organisation. Have photographs of your team and encourage everyone to write a brief bio about who they are and what their role is within your organisation.

Have the facility for people to make donations online. If you do not have your own payment system available, provide a link through to a fundraising site such as www.givealittle.co.nz .

Give people an opportunity to sign up for regular newsletters or updates. They may not be ready to become a member or sponsor immediately, but with regular contact they may become a valuable part of your organisation.

Include as many contact details as you can. Not everyone wants to make enquiries via email, especially if your organisation deals with issues of a sensitive nature.

Ask your website developer to install a content management system, so that you can regularly update your site on your own. Initially this is an extra expense, but it very quickly pays for itself and means your website can be kept 100% up to date.

Motivation Monday - Hey You

Our service on Sunday was about praising and up lifting others for what they do and not taking people for granted.  Today I was having a bad day...I stayed in bed, kept the curtains closed and did not want to face the world.  I read my book, listened to music, and had FB on in the background.  A fellow GBer posted the above.  She probably just liked it, maybe needed it for herself, but when I read it, it helped, it got me out of bed.  And it reminded me of yesterdays service.  Keep praising others, complementing them, and uplifting them, you'll never know when they may really need it.  And thank-you for all your kind words, it helps to keep me going.

Wednesday's Word of the Week - Pot-Bellied Pig

The sign said: “Found: Pot-bellied Pig.”

Did I just read what I think I read? I’d never seen such an announcement. Similar ones, sure. But “Found: Potbellied Pig?” Who loses a pig? The sign presupposes a curious moment. Someone spots the pig lumbering down the sidewalk. “Poor thing. Climb in little piggy. The street is no place for you. I’ll take you home.” I wouldn’t claim one. But God did.

God did when he claimed us. We assume God cares for the purebreds of the world. The tidy-living. But what about the rest of us? Do we warrant his oversight?

Psalm 91:1-2 offers a rousing yes! “Those who live in the shelter of the Most High will find rest in the shadow of the Almighty.” The Lord says, “I will rescue those who love me. I will protect those who trust in my name!”

From Max Lucado's book, 'Come Thirsty'

This is a verse I keep on my mirror and see every morning, a little reminder to trust Him with everything and hand all things over to Him, as it is only in His strength that I do all things.

Toolbox Tuesday - Marketing Must Do's

For the next 40 Tuesday's I am going to bring to your toolbox - 40 marketing must-do's. I encourage you to add one of these to your week for the next 40 weeks and change how you reach your communities for GBNZ.  This come to you courtesy of Exult.

1. Make Use of Your Email Signature
For most people email is the most frequently used form of communication, and every time you hit send, you have the opportunity to promote something specific about your organisation. Have a look at your email signature and check you are making the most of the opportunity it provides.

Your email signature should have more than just your contact details, there is room to have one or two lines about a specific programme, campaign or need. Add a link so that readers can click straight through to your
website for more information.

Sample Email Signatures
Your email signature should have more than just your contact details, there is room to have one or two lines
about a specific programme, campaign or need. Use these sample signatures to give you some ideas of what
you could promote in your own organisation.

Did you know our ‘Food for Families’ programme provides budget cooking classes for 15 new families every week? You can support one family through this programme for as little as $30 by visiting our Fundraising page www.abcdefghi.org.nz/fundraising

What are your children doing these holidays? Why don’t they join our School Holiday Programme from 6th – 16th April 2010. Loads of fun, games, outings and more. WINZ Subsidies available. For more information visit www.abcdefghi.org.nz or phone 07 555 5555

Join us for our annual Art Auction and Ball on Saturday 15th May. Great music, food, wine, and a chance to win $5,000 worth of travel. Tickets just $70. For more information or to secure your tickets visit www.abcdefghi.org.nz/ball.

Do you have 1 hour to spare on Monday 19th July? We need collectors to help with our street appeal in YOUR neighbourhood. We give you everything you need, and you can collect anytime from 3pm – 7pm. For more information phone 07 555 5555 or email volunteer@abcdefghi.org.nz

Do you have an old fridge you are no longer using? Our children’s art programme needs a small fridge to store wax in – it doesn’t have to be flash. If you have a fridge you would like to donate, please call Milly on 07 555 5555 or email milly@abcdefghi.org.nz

Sponsorship Opportunities are now available for ‘Little Day Out’ on Saturday 18th September. You can contribute to the success of the day AND market your business to 500 families for as little as $250. For more information phone 07 555 5555 or email sponsors@abcdefghi.org.nz

Would like to keep up-to-date with what’s going on? Visit www.abcdefghi.org.nz/subscribe to register for our free monthly newsletter. Find out about clinic times, workshops, support groups and more.

Motivation Monday's - The Parable Of The Trapeze

Sometimes I feel that my life is a series of trapeze swings. I'm either hanging on to a trapeze bar swinging along or, for a few moments in my life, I'm hurtling across space in between trapeze bars.

Most of the time, I spend my life hanging on for dear life to my trapeze-bar-of-the-moment. It carries me along at a certain steady rate of swing and I have the feeling that I'm in control of my life.

I know most of the right questions and even some of the answers.

But every once in a while as I'm merrily (or even not-so-merrily) swinging along, I look out ahead of me into the distance and what do I see? I see another trapeze bar swinging toward me. It's empty and I know, in that place in me that knows, that this new trapeze bar has my name on it. It is my next step, my growth, my aliveness coming to get me. In my heart of hearts I know that, for me to grow, I must release my grip on this present, well-known bar and move to the new one.

Each time it happens to me I hope (no, I pray) that I won't have to let go of my old bar completely before I grab the new one. But in my knowing place, I know that I must totally release my grasp on my old bar and, for some moment in time, I must hurtle across space before I can grab onto the new bar.

Each time, I am filled with terror. It doesn't matter that in all my previous hurtles across the void of unknowing I have always made it. I am each time afraid that I will miss, that I will be crushed on unseen rocks in the bottomless chasm between bars. I do it anyway. Perhaps this is the essence of what the mystics call the faith experience. No guarantees, no net, no insurance policy, but you do it anyway because somehow to keep hanging on to that old bar is no longer on the list of alternatives. So, for an eternity that can last a microsecond or a thousand lifetimes, I soar across the dark void of "the past is gone, the future is not yet here."

It's called "transition." I have come to believe that this transition is the only place that real change occurs. I mean real change, not the pseudo-change that only lasts until the next time my old buttons get punched.

I have noticed that, in our culture, this transition zone is looked upon as a "no-thing," a noplace between places. Sure, the old trapeze bar was real, and that new one coming towards me, I hope that's real, too. But the void in between? Is that just a scary, confusing, disorienting nowhere that must be gotten through as fast and as unconsciously as possible?

NO! What a wasted opportunity that would be. I have a sneaking suspicion that the transition zone is the only real thing and the bars are illusions we dream up to avoid the void where the real change, the real growth, occurs for us. Whether or not my hunch is true, it remains that the transition zones in our lives are incredibly rich places. They should be honored, even savored. Yes, with all the pain and fear and feelings of being out of control that can (but not necessarily) accompany transitions, they are still the most alive, most growth-filled, passionate, expansive moments in our lives.

Wednesday's Word of the Week - Do you trust Him?

The sky is dark. Sudden waves of water tilt up our sailing vessel until we see nothing but sky and then downward until we see nothing but blue. I learned this about sailing: there is nothing swell about a swell!

Eyes turned first to the thunderclouds, then to the captain. We looked to him. He was deliberate and decisive. He told some of us where to sit, others what to do, and all of us to hang on. And we did what he said. Why? We knew he knew best.

Such winds test our trust in the Captain. Does God know what he’s doing? Why did he allow the storm? The conditions worsen, and his instructions perplex. How do you respond? Can you say about God what I said about our captain?

I know God knows what’s best. I know I don’t. I know he cares. Do you trust him?

“Those who know your name trust in you, for you, LORD, have never forsaken those who seek you." Psalm 9:10

From Max Lucado's book, Come Thirsty

Toolbox Tuesday - GB Level Badges

So what does your group do for the girls to earn their level badges? We find its not many girls cup of tea to learn this sort of stuff. I've heard many ideas for learning this information from doing a little bit each night, to doing a couple of full nights on this. From doing activities like word puzzles, to jigsaw puzzles and all sorts of memory techniques.

We do level badges every two years, typically, and just for a couple of nights. I have some worksheets I have created with different sorts of puzzles. They complete these over 1 and a half nights; then for approx. an hour on the second night we play ZONK! This is a game where small coloured squares of card are stuck to the wall; on the backs of which are points (1,2,3,4,5,10,20,50 etc). The girls are in teams of mixed levels, I ask them a question, the first team with their hand up get to answer the question. If they get it right someone comes up and starts to remove the cards from the wall and adds up the points on the back, the twist is that some of the cards say ZONK, if they get this they lose all the points the hold for that round. They can say stop at any point and any points they have can be kept. It can get quite frantic and the girls can get quite competitive and loud but heaps of fun - and we find the girls really learn a lot.

This year we have had girls doing levels 1-3. Click on the links below to download PDF's of the level badge worksheets I have created for this years use, feel free to use them if you wish.  Level 2 & 3 will just need the info for West Akld cut out and your own info applied.  If you would like the publisher files from me, just email.

Level 1

Level 2

Level 3