Ordinary Words Extraordinary Power, A Dictionary of Distinctions, Danish Ahmed,

Subject: Ordinary Vision? DECIDE on July 17 (this Sat. 10 PM) - Party with me; special offer for "Ordinary" guests...

Want to read articles on other topics? Browse through previous e-zine issues at http://www.ordinarywords.com/ezine.html

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"If you want, then start to laugh \ If you must, then start to cry. \ Show yourself, don't hide \ Just believe in destiny. \ Don't care what people say \ Just follow your own way \ Don't give up and lose the chance \ The return to innocence."
- Enigma, "Return to Innocence"

"When you're ready to go \ And your heart's left in doubt \ Don't give up on your faith \ Love comes to those who believe it \ And that's the way it is"
- Celine Dion, "That's The Way It Is"
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An Ordinary Vision

The purpose of Ordinary Words has been to simplify personal growth strategies, helping to empower and inspire more people.

Wanting to have these concepts be relatable for everyone, I showcase quotes from our modern day media (music, television, movies). I've envisioned the integration of motivational presentations with artistic talent such as rap and improv.

Up With People was an organization that performed a multi-cultural musical with an empowering and uplifting theme. After participating in that youth program, I knew that I would somehow be involved in the convergence of entertainment and inspiration.

The vision of Ordinary Words is to produce entertaining media that uplifts, educates, and inspires people. I've had conversations with people about having a division called "Ordinary Lyrics." In my visualization exercises, I've seen movie intros saying "an Ordinary production..." But that's down the road, right?

I saw a show last week. It totally blew me away. Honestly, 99% of me was saying, "This show is amazing!!!" And 1% of me was saying, "How did this guy steal MY idea?"

It wasn't my idea -- it was the universe's idea. And the universe was doing me a big favor. Rather than having to create everything from scratch, here was an opportunity to really support and develop something I had a strong passion for.

I bought the CD of the show, and I have been listening to it nonstop. Does this show embody the Ordinary Words vision? Is "Ordinary Vision" appropriate? On July 17, come see the show for yourself and help me "decide." (See show details below.)

[Last Minute Edit: I just had an awesome meeting with Stuart of Knight Flight Productions, and I might be in the show!]
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DECIDE
Ordinary Words Guests Get a Special Offer on Toronto's Hottest New Show

What captures your heart? What moves your soul? What ignites your spirit?

Music and drama create a very powerful effect. Think about it... When you hear a song that you like, don't you feel emotionally charged? When you go to a movie that you love, isn't it great because it excited you in a special way? Maybe it made you laugh or maybe it made you cry?

"Decide" is a theatrical performance -- an elegant convergence of entertainment and inspiration. It's like a Broadway-style musical with short skits that will tickle you, singers that will astonish you, spoken-word artists that will dazzle you, and improvisation that will prod you. The show will have you be touched, moved, and inspired, like nothing else.

Here's the best part: After the 90 minute show, the cast, crew and audience members hang out together for a party! That's right -- with a cash bar, a dance floor, and a renewed sense of enthusiasm, about 100 people get to know each other for several hours.

It's something special that you may not have experienced before. And of course, I'll be there too!

See pictures of past shows here:

Following are some lyrics from the song "oh love"...
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Lyrics to this song were sent only to those subscribed to
the Ordinary Words Newsletter.
Click here to subscribe.
- - - - - - - - - -

"Decide" is produced by Knight Flight Productions, producer of the show "A Whole New Perspective" which has been seen by 300,000 people, and written up in publications across Canada. I'm friends with Stuart Knight -- he's an acclaimed motivational speaker and an all-round awesome guy.

(c) Copyright Ordinary Words Inc., 2000-2004. All rights reserved.
34 Woodrow Ave., Toronto, Canada M4C-5S2 +1 (647) 439-5011

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Privacy Policy: Your personal information will never be given, traded or sold to anyone. You will only receive e-mails from danish@ordinarywords.com relevant to Ordinary Words Inc.

Simple words. Relatable stories. Powerful inspiration.
http://www.ordinarywords.com

Sent: Friday, June 11, 2004
Subject: You have some choices to make...

"The problem with a lot of people, why they don't move ahead in the world, is because they always feel that they don't have choice. They feel that this is it, and become complacent with themselves."
- Kevork Guerguerian, Corporate Trainer

"You do choose your response to each event. You may not think of your responses as choices, because they are habits that have become automatic over time."
- Jeff Keller, Author

"The foundation of choice is in choosing our thoughts."
- Danish Ahmed
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Discovering You Can

What has people feel empowered? What has people make things happen?

Choice. We become conscious of the options that are available to us, we pick something, and then we act upon that choice.

It's simple, but it's not easy. Are you with me? Let's take a closer look at what we're talking about.

1. Become Conscious

Are you enjoying the summer? My friends like to be outside in the summer. That doesn't work for me because it's too bright for my eyes and my skin quickly sunburns (due to albinism). Before I did any personal development, I would stay home or I would go to an outdoor activity and mentally complain to myself, enduring the pain. Now, I'm conscious of the choices I have: I can wear appropriate clothing and glasses, I can request my friends to be in a heavily shaded area, I can enroll my friends in doing an indoor activity, etc.

If life can be altered simply by making different choices, then why don't people do it? Most of the time, it's because they think they don't have a choice. They think they are stuck with their circumstances. They believe that life is the way it is, and that it's too difficult to change it.

Andrei Losinski, manager of Customer Learning Services at Royal Bank of Canada says, "Your life is about your choices, and you can only make choices when you're in the moment of distinguishing that you have choices."

Every moment has the possibility of endless choices. You can choose to smile, you can choose to laugh. You can choose to communicate, or you automatically choose not to communicate. You can choose to do something different, or you automatically choose to continue doing what you've always done.

Every moment is choice.

2. Pick Something

The publisher I picked for the first edition of my book turned out to be a scam! Some would say I got ripped off. Did I? I picked, and I learned. Now I'm negotiating a contract for my second book, "Your Guide to Personal Development", with a major U.S. publisher.

Most people are so afraid of making the wrong decision, that they don't make any decision at all.

Yet they have chosen: They've chosen to allow circumstances to shape their destiny.

We often worry about consequences that we "think" will occur from a wrong decision. How many times have you worried about the consequences of your decision and it turned out better than you thought?

Picking something -- anything -- already puts you in the top 95 percentile.

Seldom are choices permanent. You can change them later.

Picking something gives us momentum. It empowers us. It demonstrates to the world and to ourselves that we are proactive and that we are at cause in our lives.

3. Take Action

Nothing happens without doing.

If you're going to do what you've always done, then you're going to get what you've always got.

It does take something to break out of our routine, to stretch beyond our comfort zone, to do something we perhaps have never done before.

Even if we're in dire circumstances -- a prisoner of war or at the mercy of evil -- we still have choice. We can choose our attitude and we can choose to develop an empowering meaning for our lives.

Is it worth it? Yes, because fulfillment doesn't come from achievement. Fulfillment comes from taking action to overcome the odds.

Choose to overcome your odds.

You can do it! (If you choose it.) It's up to you.
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"Life is the only game in which the entire object is just to play. The only way to lose is to sit out. Too bad many people do."
- Sean Reece

"You don't need a crystal ball to see your future, you just need to look at the choices you are making."
- Kaner Sheridan

"When you change one thing -- that changes everything."
- Rachel Griffiths, Six Feet Under, HBO Television Series
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Remember my popular "What was it like in Atlanta? ~ The Power of Words" article (Sept.2/03 issue)? Now you can HEAR it. Click http://empoweringmessages.com/guests/009-DanishAhmed.shtml
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(c) Copyright Ordinary Words Inc., 2000-2004. All rights reserved.
34 Woodrow Ave., Toronto, Canada M4C-5S2 +1 (647) 439-5011

Simple words. Relatable stories. Powerful inspiration.
http://www.ordinarywords.com

Sent: Monday, May 31, 2004
Subject: Personal Development Community Social (FREE), Saturday June 5, 5:30 PM

Hi Everyone!!

Are you interested in experiencing some of the great programs I take part in? Here’s an invitation to an awesome evening where you’ll learn, grow, and have fun!

I am doing the Landmark Wisdom Course, which is a 10-month personal development program. Actually, it's much more than that. Personal development programs have us focus on transforming ourselves. The Wisdom Course is all about transforming our "communities." The best part is, the 150 participants are all Landmark Forum graduates -- people who are really up to making a difference in their lives. It's an awesome community I want to share with all of you.

I would love for all of you to be there. I consider the Landmark Forum the absolute best personal development program. And that’s a bold statement, considering all the programs I have done over the years.

There will be about 200 people... We will:
1. Meet and mingle, ~40 mins.
2. Hear about Landmark Education and the Wisdom Course from one of the Landmark Forum Leaders and some of the participants, ~45 mins.
3. Participate in group activities that are a part of the Wisdom Course, ~45 mins.
4. Yoga Jazz Lounge -- Move, grove and socialize for the rest of the evening

Saturday, June 5, 2004
5:30 PM (to ~11:00 PM)
Location: Crowne Plaza Toronto Don Valley, 1250 Eglinton East., Toronto, Canada
Of course, it's FREE

The official flyer (with more details) can be downloaded from http://www.ordinarywords.com/WisdomJune5.PDF (600K file)

Feel free to bring friends, forward this e-mail, the URL, or the flyer to others as well. This event is appropriate for ages 10 and up.

Have a beautiful day. :)

Love & God Bless,
[)anish /|hmed
"Consciousness is the foundation of reality." - Joseph Balderson, http://www.ordinarywords.com

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{Ordinary Words Inc. and Landmark Education Corporation have no legal, official, or otherwise implied relationship.}

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(c) Copyright Ordinary Words Inc., 2000-2004. All rights reserved.
34 Woodrow Ave., Toronto, Canada M4C-5S2 +1 (647) 439-5011

Simple words. Relatable stories. Powerful inspiration.
http://www.ordinarywords.com

Sent: Tuesday, May 25, 2004
Subject: The SEXIEST Art Party Ever!! -- This FRIDAY 10 PM (May 28)

Hi Guys & Guysettes,

Did you miss the opening of UNDERGROUND LOVE? (We had line-ups of people -- 300 in total; everybody loved it!)

So, we're having a PARTY to celebrate!

- Win an exclusive exhibition piece
- Be served by underwear models
- To the sounds of Matt Crysdale

Friday, May 28, 2004
129 Spadina Avenue, The Spadina Building (south of Richmond, Toronto)
Doors open 10 PM -- $25
http://www.undergroundlove.net

Knowing me has its privileges... If there are line-ups outside, call my cell phone and I will escort you in... ;)

Love & God Bless,
[)anish /|hmed
"The most influential quotes are the ones that you write." - http://www.ordinarywords.com

Sent: Friday, May 14, 2004
Subject: Where is Your Life HEADED?

"MOM flipped over is WOW."
- Colleen Guggenberger

"Nature works miracles that magic can only dream about."
- Flavia Bujor, author of Prophecy of the Stones (2004), age 13

"It takes time to build a corporate work of art. It takes time to build a life. And it takes time to develop and grow. So give yourself, your enterprise, and your family the time they deserve and the time they require."
- Jim Rohn
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Where is Your Life Headed?
From Gangster Rap to Poetic Justice, to Ordinary Words...

I remember sitting in a subway car on my way home from grade nine. I had an 88% average and I was making good money at my job, yet I was depressed out of my mind. I wasn't in a rush to get home -- I would stay on the subway for hours, not really caring about the day, caring about who I was, or caring about where I was going. My eyes were closed, my head was leaning against the wall, and my walkman was playing lyrics of rappers such as The Ghetto Boys, 2 Live Crew, and NWA.

Where was my life headed? I didn't know at the time...

Life seemed cruel and unfair to me, so I sought refuge in an underground world of technology. I operated a BBS (the communication technology before the Internet popularized) where we traded pirated software, distributed articles on anarchy, and collected all sorts of computer viruses. I didn't want to write essays in high-school, so I even created a system to trade book reports and assignments with people around the world. And I justified it all with the hacker's manifesto:

We exist without skin color, without nationality, without religious bias... and you call us criminals. You build atomic bombs, you wage wars, you murder, cheat, and lie to us and try to make us believe it's for our own good, yet we're the criminals..."

Where was my life headed? I didn't know at the time...

I tried to change. I really tried. I'd talk to teachers, I'd write letters, I'd do anything to get my life on track. Writing poetry seemed to help a little bit. The days of listening to gangster rap paid off as I applied the lyrical creativity I heard to my own writings. What did I come up with? My motto by the end of high-school became "The whole system is [m]ucked, everybody knows it's [m]ucked, and nobody will do [m]uck about it."

Where was my life headed? I felt my world was messed up. But was the "whole world" messed up? I wanted to find out, so I traveled and I continued my interest in discovering the personal development phenomenon.

What did I discover? The world IS messed up! AND... the purpose of life is to improve our world and the world around us -- not to complain about it, but to do something about it.

Where is your life headed? It may seem like it's headed nowhere. It may seem really confusing. It may not make much sense. Here's the beauty: Wherever we are in life, whatever it is that we are doing, it is happening for a reason. Today is creating our destiny, whether we realize it or not.

If gangster rap can be transformed into "ordinary words with extraordinary power"... What can your life be transformed into?
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"Success is not the result of making money. Making money is the result of success."
"The opposite of courage in our society is not cowardice. It's conformity."
"Nothing great was ever accomplished without inspiration."

- Earl Nightingale ("The Strangest Secret" recorded in 1956)
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(c) Copyright Ordinary Words Inc., 2000-2004. All rights reserved.
34 Woodrow Ave., Toronto, Canada M4C-5S2 +1 (647) 439-5011

Simple words. Relatable stories. Powerful inspiration.
http://www.ordinarywords.com

Sent: Friday, April 30, 2004
Subject: DoD: Underground Love, Friday May 7, 9:00 PM

Welcome to the Distinctions e-Zine...
Simple. Relatable. Powerful.
The art of effective communication.

Exploring Communication:
1. Three Simple Steps to a Beautiful Day
2. Underground Love, Friday May 7, 9:00 PM

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"When I was younger, so much younger than today,
I never needed anybody's help in any way.
But now these days are gone, I'm not so self assured,
Now I find I've changed my mind and opened up the doors."
- The Beatles, "Help!"

"Be mindful of how you approach time. Watching the clock is not the same as watching the sun rise."
- Sophia Bedford-Pierce, Author

"When people criticize me, I think they have good taste. They have selected me to criticize."
- Marva Collins
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Three Simple Steps to a Beautiful Day
by Danish Ahmed & Steve Rogers

What makes your day a great day? When you get an unexpected visit from that special someone, when pleasant surprises happen, or when serendipitous moments occur, things are great! How do you have a great day when you feel stressed, when activities become routine and mundane, or when your life feels mediocre and insignificant?

When you discover the answer, you realize how simple it is. Learn to appreciate each moment. Every moment of life is a miracle, and appreciating it as such can give us a sense of blessing and abundance. Anyone can hold the helm when the sea is calm. However, it's hard to stay calm in the face of our circumstances. It's hard to stay focused in the face of our temptations... And it's hard to be at peace in the face of our chaos. Try taking the focus off of yourself, and put it on other people -- that's the secret. Here are the three steps:

1. Listen

We're all humans on our own particular journey. Everybody's journey is perfect and special for them. If we come from that listening, then everybody is equal, and everybody's opinion matters. If we want people to listen to what we have to say, then we need to offer others the same courtesy. We're all in this together. What's our goal? Positive, ethical evolution... Sometimes this is called humanity.

Listen to people, be in their presence, and totally accept who they are.

2. Acknowledge

Are people inherently good? Some people's behaviors may not be consistent with our values. Yet everybody is right in their own thinking, because their experiences justify their reasoning. Everybody thinks they are right. Instead of focusing on our differences, what would happen if we started focusing on the commonality of our intentions?

When I went to see the Dali Lama last weekend at the SkyDome with 30,000 people, I felt the commonality of everybody's intentions. We were a diverse crowd, from many different walks of life, from varying demographics, and with a mix of spiritual backgrounds. Yet we came together with a common purpose -- to promote peace and foster compassion. What a great energy to be in! When we applaud the good in others, we strengthen the good in them, and we solidify our own values. Acknowledge others. The greatest motivation doesn't come from reward. The greatest motivator is the expressive communication that validates people's identity.

Acknowledge people for who they are, what they are up to, and who they are being.

3. Share

One of the most basic cross-cultural human needs is the need for connection. We all need to be related to. Sharing opens a doorway to connection. The news media has taught us to protect ourselves, to put up a barrier of defense, and not to be vulnerable. Does that really work? While keeping us safe, it keeps us from having the great fulfillment that comes from connecting with people. Humans connect when we help each other, when we support each other, when we share with each other, when we're real, and when we're being authentic. When we do this, we grow together and we create a community.

Share with people from your heart, be authentic, and embrace humanity.

What "really" makes your day a great day? I assert that it's when you're able to see the difference you make for others, REGARDLESS of what's going on in your own life.

Listen to People
When we truly listen to people and get who they are, we see the beauty in them.

Acknowledge People
When we acknowledge people and have them feel understood, together we appreciate the beauty of communication.

Share with People
When we share with people and express who we are, we experience the beauty in ourselves.

Transform your ordinary day into a beautiful day.
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"I can't change your life, but if I can change the way you view your life, your whole life is going to change."
"Men are happy when they are productive. Women are productive when they are happy."
"Although falling in love may just happen, having a loving relationship doesn't."
- Ellen Kreidman, "Light Her Fire/Light His Fire"
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<< Underground Love >>
Graphical invitation at http://www.UndergroundLove.net
[Event for Ages 19+]

If you could take a picture, how would you take this...

I have seen him standing across from me, all sinewy, muscled and hot.

She is always there. The girl with the long dark hair. So fine. She's got all the right cuts. And I'd swear she was looking at me too. This subway platform is so busy. If I could get closer, see into her eyes, smell her, touch her, rub up against her. My buddy Benjamin captured it all on film. You decide. Should I?

The MarkBrand Group and Ordinary Words Inc.
cordially invite you to the opening of
Benjamin Jordan's exhibition:
Underground Love

Friday, May Seventh, Two Thousand Four
Nine o'clock in the evening
129 Spadina Avenue, The Spadina Building
(Toronto, Ontario, Canada)
free - by donation

RSVP: johnpaul@markbrand.net or 416-315.9760
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"All human problems can be resolved by a return to values."
- Brian Tracy

"All decision making is value reinforcement."
- Anthony Robbins

"I was asking myself why I was having these obstacles in my life...then I suddenly became aware that these obstacles were my life, and I began to enjoy them."
- John Kanary, Author of "Breaking Through Limitations"
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<< Give the Gift of Communication >>
Order "A Dictionary of Distinctions" online at Chapters:
Click http://www.chapters.indigo.ca/item.asp?Catalog=Books&Item=978097313600

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(c) Copyright Ordinary Words Inc., 2000-2004. All rights reserved.
34 Woodrow Ave., Toronto, Canada M4C-5S2 +1 (647) 439-5011
http://www.ordinarywords.com
Editors: Danish Ahmed, Steve Rogers, Andrei Losinski, Naz Ahmed

Do you know anybody else who would enjoy reading these articles? Please feel free to forward this newsletter to your family, friends, and associates.

Sent: Tuesday, April 6, 2004
Subject: DoD: Part 2 -- 3 C's of Asking

Welcome to the Distinctions e-Zine...
Simple. Relatable. Powerful.
The art of effective communication.

- - - - - - - - - -
"The mediocre teacher tells. The good teacher explains. The superior teacher demonstrates. The great teacher inspires."
- William Arthur Ward, Author, Editor and Pastor

"If you don't understand people, you can't help them. If you don't love people, you won't help them."
- John C. Maxwell

"I believe the children are our future
Teach them well and let them lead the way
Show them all the beauty they possess inside
Give them a sense of pride to make it easier
Let the children's laughter remind us how we used to be."
- Whitney Houston, "Greatest Love of All"; also referred to in the movie “School of Rock” (2003, Screenwriter: Mike White)
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The Three C's of Asking

[This is a follow-up article to last week's issue on asking. If you haven't read it yet, you may want to view on our homepage, http://www.ordinarywords.com.]

Does asking really work? Is it "that" simple? Did you try it?

Some people tried it on me! A few subscribers wrote and asked me if I would promote them in this e-zine. For example, Irene Segal, who is a coach and wonderfully loving and giving person, asked me if I could mention her. Well, her story is amazing. Have you ever considered what a difference a personal or professional coach can make, or what exactly a "coach" does? http://www.justcoachit.com

Now, what gets us to ask in the first place? We ask because we have a desire, and we believe that our desire may get fulfilled upon our asking. What stops us from asking? We don't ask because we don't think our request will be answered, leaving our desire unfulfilled. It makes sense. Why would we want to invest in something (making a request) that we don't believe in (getting an affirmative response)?

The fundamental reason we hesitate to ask for something is because we think we won't get what we want. In fact, if we knew that our requests would get accepted, we'd ask for things all the time. We would feel like a child in a candy store, picking and choosing everything to our heart's content. So, how do we raise our level of expectation? How do we get ourselves to believe that we'll get what we want? We've got to get good at asking. Let's learn how to get better results from our requests...

1. Make Your Requests Clear

"Can you help me with my home renovations?" That request can mean many things. Some people might think you're talking about taking measurements and shopping for supplies. Others may think you're talking about doing sawing and drilling. What's worse is that somebody may decline our request, thinking we wanted X, when we really wanted Y. Consider a more specific question, like "Would it be possible to spare three consecutive hours within the next couple of weeks to assist me in repainting my garage?" If you're familiar with S.M.A.R.T. goals (specific, measurable, affirmative/action-oriented, realistic, time sensitive), then SMARTen your requests, too.

2. Make Your Requests Concise

A long detailed request may never even get read. We've got to respect other people's time, and state our requests in a timely fashion. Initially, Karen (another subscriber) gave me about three paragraphs of text to help promote her. Honestly, I didn't want to spend the time trying to figure out how to shorten or compact Karen's text AND... I wanted to stay committed to supporting people in our community. After a couple of e-mails, I got Karen to submit the following: "Karen builds on the strengths of, and highlights how people are unique when writing a client's resume and/or cover letter. Contact: Karen Shane, B.A., Member of the Professional Association of Resume Writers. Tel: 416-226-0460." Karen stayed committed and was able to see my commitment, too. This illustrates the kind of person Karen is, and the kind of person she would be to work with on your next resume or cover letter.

3. Make Your Requests Compelling

What's in it for them? About a month ago, I had a speaking opportunity in Brantford, Ontario. It is impossible to get to Brantford by public transit (at the specified speaking time), so I needed a ride. I could have called up a friend and said: "Can you drive me to a speaking engagement?" Would that request be compelling for them? Instead, I asked: "Would you like to see my popular Timeless Truths in Time Management presentation for free and get a dinner out of it too?" Perspective changes everything. I put myself into my friend's shoes by considering what he would get by honoring my request.

If we make our requests clear, concise, and compelling, then people are more likely to honor them. The more people that honor our requests, the more requests we'll make in future. It's a cycle -- a great cycle. Get in this habit and increase the ratio of your accepted requests.

Oh, by the way, since there are over 1,700 readers of this newsletter, I cannot honor any more
- - - - - - - - - -

"Have you ever listened to people from the inside?"
- Powder (1995, Written and Directed by Victor Salva)

"When we change the way we look at things, we change the way things look."
- Dr. Wayne Dyer

"Time management isn't about getting more things done. It's about doing the right things at the right time."
- Danish Ahmed
- - - - - - - - - -

Distinctions that Make a Difference!

"First off, I just want to say thank you. Thank you for coming to Bethune. Thank you for inspiring to be all that you can be. Thank you for inspiring others like myself, and every single person in that small room at our school. Thank you for being such a kind, caring, person who can value other people's respect and understand that everyone deserves fair and equal treatment. But lastly, thanks for being yourself, and being real with us and letting us relate to you on that level. A lot of people who do presentations put on a shroud to make us think they are something else. When you started talking, I could tell you were a genuine, kind-hearted person. And for that, I thank you."
- C. Kalanderopoulos, Student
- - - - - - - - - -

"Every morning in Africa, a gazelle wakes up. It knows it must run faster than the fastest lion or it will be killed. Every morning a lion wakes up. It knows it must outrun the slowest gazelle or it will starve to death. It doesn't matter whether you are a lion or a gazelle; when the sun comes up, you'd better be running."
- African Proverb

"Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed people can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has."
- Margaret Mead (1901-1978), Anthropologist and Writer

"Communication is the secret to success... pass it on."
- Author Unknown
- - - - - - - - - -

A collection of "distinctions" can make an awesome gift!
Order "A Dictionary of Distinctions" online at Chapters:
Click http://www.chapters.indigo.ca/item.asp?Catalog=Books&Item=978097313600

Subscribe to this free newsletter by sending an e-mail to join-distinctions@mh.databack.com
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(c) Copyright Ordinary Words Inc., 2000-2004. All rights reserved.
34 Woodrow Ave., Toronto, Canada M4C-5S2 +1 (647) 439-5011
http://www.ordinarywords.com
Editors: Danish Ahmed, Steve Rogers, Andrei Losinski, Naz Ahmed

Do you know anybody else who would enjoy reading these articles? Please feel free to forward this newsletter to your family, friends, and associates.

Sent: Tuesday, March 16, 2004
Subject: DoD: Please read this... It will mean a lot to me / Happy St. Patrick's Day!

Welcome to the Distinctions e-Zine...
Simple. Relatable. Powerful.
The art of effective communication.

In this issue:
1. Please read this...
2. Distinctions that Make a Difference!
3. How to Make Use of St. Patrick's Day (March 17th)
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"Humans don't throw morality out the window when things get tough."
- Captain Jonathan Archer (Scott Bakula), Star Trek: Enterprise

"The limits of my language mean the limits of my world."
- Ludwig Wittgenstein (1889-1951), Philosopher

"Courage is doing what you're afraid to do. There can be no courage unless you are scared."
- Edward V. Rickenbacker (1890-1973), Aviator
- - - - - - - - - -

Please read this... It will mean a lot to me.

Thanks. I appreciate you taking the time to read this. Now, why do you think this means a lot to me? Take a moment and think about it. What got you to start reading this? If you don't read "every" issue, what got you to start reading this time? Was it simply because I asked you to?

Consider how powerful a tool "asking" can be. We can get what we want sometimes simply by making a request. Let people know that what you're asking for is important to you, and they will want to contribute in some way. It sounds simple, yet some of us are afraid to ask others for any kind of help. We may try to do everything on our own.

I was like this. I wanted to be independent. I couldn't stand being blind and being at a visual disadvantage. So I did everything in my power to compensate for my disadvantages. I studied harder and I anticipated my challenges. For example, when I was thirteen, I traveled to every subway station in Toronto, so that I would become familiar with the environments. This meant that when I would later go for job interviews, I could save time by recognizing certain landmarks, rather than getting lost or asking someone for directions.

Wanting to be independent served me. It gave me confidence and valuable experience. However, when I would get lost and be late for an interview, for example, I wouldn't ask anyone for help. I would persist with my own abilities. I didn't want to look bad to others. It wasn't until later in life that I found the humility to simply ask for help.

There is power in an authentic request. Most people genuinely want to make a difference. For me, I didn't want to ask strangers for help. For you, it may be a friend or a family member, a co-worker or a significant other that you're hesitant to approach. What have you been afraid of asking? Are you afraid of getting turned down? Are you afraid of being vulnerable? Marianne Williamson says, "Where love is present, fear cannot exist."

We have so many resources at our disposal. Take the telephone for example... Somebody at a recent seminar was saying they had a great new product for an office furniture chain, but wasn't sure how to get their idea heard. What's the solution? Pick up the telephone, call the head office, and ask them for their policy and procedure on new product acquisitions. Ask. Sometimes it's just that simple.

Now, what are you asking yourself on a daily basis? What questions come up in your mental chatter? Are they questions like, why am I so unlucky? Why does this always happen to me? Or, are they questions like, how can I turn this around? What's funny about this situation? Your brain will come up with an answer for ANY question, so it's very important to make sure you're asking empowering questions like "How can I turn this around and make a difference?"

As a good book from a long time ago says, ask and it shall be given unto you; seek and ye shall find; knock and the door shall be opened unto you. Profound words. And, in more ways than one. To recap, feel free to make authentic requests from other people in your life. If you find yourself stuck and not knowing, think who else you can ask. And, consider that the questions we ask ourselves on a habitual basis get answered by creating the reality that we live.

Thanks again for reading this. I get joy and satisfaction from knowing that my words have a positive impact on you. Whether you get a simple burst of motivation while you're reading this, or you take actions that you wouldn't otherwise have taken, I feel a sense of purpose and mission. I hope this message has made a difference for you.
- - - - - - - - - -

"When we treat man as he is, we make him worse than he is; when we treat him as if he already were what he potentially could be, we make him what he should be."
- Johann Wolfgang von Goethe (1749-1832), Philosopher

"Businesses don't fail; business owners quit."
- Joe Tye, "The Twelve Core Action Values"

"Consciousness is the foundation of reality."
- Joseph Balderson
- - - - - - - - - -

Distinctions that Make a Difference!

"...I never thought that our thoughts were our identification, and when [Danish] said that, I immediately thought back and realized it was true. ...I learned something very important: life can let you down, but you cannot let life keep you down. I look forward to seeing Danish Ahmed again and listening to another one of his amazing speeches."
- Golzar Yaghoubpour, student, age 12
- - - - - - - - - -

How to Make Use of St. Patrick's Day

You may not be Irish nor interested in promoting a holiday that isn't relevant to you. However, knowing a little bit of background can assist us in relating with other people. During the day, it can be a good conversation starter in social settings, networking events, or simply talking to strangers. We can celebrate life in each and every moment of our lives. Sometimes, it's a little easier when we have a reason to celebrate. Even if that reason seems artificial, superficial, or inauthentic, at least it gets us talking. Talking about anything is the bridge that leads us to authentic communication and has us discover all the people around us.

So, what's St. Patrick's Day all about?

"Saint Patrick's Day or St. Patrick's Day, holiday honoring Saint Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland. It is celebrated annually on March 17, his feast day. Saint Patrick was a missionary in the 5th century AD who is credited with converting Ireland to Christianity. St. Patrick's Day is a national holiday in Ireland..."

"...Popular St. Patrick's Day customs in the United States and Canada include drinking beer that has been colored green, eating corned beef and cabbage, wearing shamrock pins and green clothing, and generally celebrating all things Irish. In Chicago, the Chicago River is dyed green, a tradition started in 1962."

Have a Happy St. Patrick's Day!!!

- "Saint Patrick's Day," Microsoft(R) Encarta(R) Online Encyclopedia 2004
http://encarta.msn.com (c) 1997-2004 Microsoft Corporation. All Rights Reserved
- - - - - - - - - -

"You sell a product or a service, you're perceived as a vendor or a supplier. You sell a vision or an experience, now you're beginning to develop a brand."
- Simon Goldmans

"Excellence is the result of caring more than others think wise, risking more than other's think safe, dreaming more than others think practical, and expecting more than others think possible."
- Anonymous

"Don't just let your business or your job make something for you; let it make something of you."
- Jim Rohn, mentor to Anthony Robbins
- - - - - - - - - -

Order "A Dictionary of Distinctions" online at Chapters:
Click http://www.chapters.indigo.ca/item.asp?Catalog=Books&Item=978097313600

Subscribe to this free newsletter by sending an e-mail to join-distinctions@mh.databack.com
Unsubscribe by sending an e-mail to leave-distinctions@mh.databack.com

(c) Copyright Ordinary Words Inc., 2000-2004. All rights reserved.
34 Woodrow Ave., Toronto, Canada M4C-5S2 +1 (647) 439-5011
http://www.ordinarywords.com
Editors: Danish Ahmed, Steve Rogers, Andrei Losinski, Naz Ahmed

Do you know anybody else who would enjoy reading these articles? Please feel free to forward this newsletter to your family, friends, and associates.

Sent: Thursday, February 26, 2004
Subject: DoD: --> Time <-- Workshop March 3 / Did You Know?

Welcome to the Distinctions e-Zine...
Simple. Relatable. Powerful.
The art of effective communication.

In this issue:
1. --> Time <--
2. Upcoming Event with Danish Ahmed
3. Did You Know . . . ?

- - - - - - - - - -

"Webster shouldn't be the only one making definitions."
- Mark Victor Hansen, Co-Creator of Chicken Soup for the Soul Series

"Broke is a state of wallet; Poverty is a state of mind."
- McZen

"Say what you mean, mean what you say, and do not be mean when you say it."
- Meryl Runion, Communications Expert
- - - - - - - - - -

--> Time <--

"Aren't you beginning to feel time gaining on you? It's like a predator. It's stalking you. You can try to outrun it with doctors, medicines, new technologies but in the end, time is going to hunt you down and make the kill."
- Soran, Star Trek: Generations

Time. It's our most precious commodity.

NOT to do something can cost us our time. What if we were never to exercise? We would save ourselves time, but we would be creating an unhealthy future for ourselves, which would decrease our life-span. Good fitness is an example of investing a little bit of time in the short-term, to gain more time in the long-term. The fringe benefit of good fitness is quality time -- not only can we live longer, we can live better with more vitality, energy, and fewer physical ailments.

We're already doing so much. We don't want to do any more... This is where we forget that time is not a constant. Time actually expands in the degree to which we make use of it. Doing more doesn't necessarily mean having less time.

One little thing can make such a big difference. Start small. What do you think about when you're brushing your teeth? Are you thinking about your teeth? Are you staring at yourself in the mirror? Or, are you allowing random thoughts to flow through your mind? What if you were to visualize the rest of your day as you would like it to be? What if you were able to see yourself moving throughout your day with confidence and fulfillment? If you try this, your day might seem to move more fluidly. You will feel more accomplished. You will remember the important things. All of this would be saving you time. What if you were to try this today?

And here's the great news: You won't have spent any extra time. WHAT we choose to do (in the conversations we have with ourselves) determines how much time we have. There are things that we can do to even multiply our time. For example, if the previous activity works for you and makes a difference, then the time you spend reading this article will multiply.

There are hundreds of ways we can make our time multiply. If you are interested in learning more, then come and see me as I present "Timeless Truths in Time Management" (details listed below).
- - - - - - - - - -

"We cannot but be truthful when we love."
- Steve Rogers

"First they ignore you, then they laugh at you, then they fight you, then you win."
- Mahatma Gandhi

"The paradox of our world: It is real, and it is not; it is what it is, and it is also what we make of it -- all at the same time."
- Joseph Balderson
- - - - - - - - - -

Upcoming Event with Danish Ahmed

The Mindset of a Champion
with 1992 Olympic Champion, Mark McKoy
Friday, February 27, 5:00 PM E.S.T.
Tele-class #: 1-323-785-4156, Code: 022704
FREE: 75 Participants max.; register through info@tranz4m.com, mention "Distinctions e-Zine"

--> Timeless Truths in Time Management <--
Wednesday March 03, 2004, 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Super Sprouts, 720 Bathurst Street, Toronto (Bathurst subway)

We all have 24 hours in a day, whether we're sitting in prison, mopping floors, climbing Mount Everest, or running a country. What separates our amount of productivity is not our capability, but our management of time. Let's learn to have time work for us. Let's learn how to multiply our time so we can spend more time doing the things we love.

In this presentation, you will learn:
- How to effectively maximize 'dead' time
- The distinction between a priority and a commitment
- When to delegate and when not to delegate
- Why certain time management techniques don't work
- To productively integrate different activities
- Ways to stop procrastination
- How to spend time doing what we love

$30; Register through http://www.metroactive.org under "Upcoming Events"
AND, get $20 off (regularly $50) a Holistic Health Spa Afternoon if you mention "Ordinary Words" -- A holistic spa afternoon consists of four 20-minute sessions with holistic practitioners of your choice.
- - - - - - - - - -

Did You Know . . . ?

The world isn't full of doom and gloom... There are so many people, groups, and communities out there that are transforming our communication, opening new doors of opportunities, and significantly impacting the face of existence as we now know it. Here are a couple of cool things that I've recently come across:

KIDS BANK. Do you know that there is a bank specifically created for kids? Mark Victor Hansen has set up a bank that makes loans to kids who are interested in starting a new business venture. The money generated is kept in an escrow account until the kids turn eighteen. Do you know kids who have the entrepreneurial spirit and could use some startup capital? Tell them about the Kids Bank and have them write a letter to Mark. Most loans are in the ballpark of several hundreds of dollars.

DISCOVER TEENERGY. Do you know any students who are gifted? This web site, http://www.DiscoverTeenergy.com, is an awesome resource for students, teachers, and parents of students who are out to make a difference in the world. Their "Gift Rap Newsletter" is full of valuable content that can do wonders for the excelling teenager.
- - - - - - - - - -

"Communication is the fuel for the mind."
- Danish Ahmed & Andrei Losinski

"When you are DOWN to nothing.... God is UP to something!"
- Various Authors

"An artist never questions their right to experience everything that life has to offer."
- Six Feet Under, Season 3, Episode 4
- - - - - - - - - -

Order "A Dictionary of Distinctions" online at Chapters:
Click http://www.chapters.indigo.ca/item.asp?Catalog=Books&Item=978097313600

Subscribe to this free newsletter by sending an e-mail to join-distinctions@mh.databack.com
Unsubscribe by sending an e-mail to leave-distinctions@mh.databack.com

(c) Copyright Ordinary Words Inc., 2000-2004. All rights reserved.
34 Woodrow Ave., Toronto, Canada M4C-5S2 +1 (647) 439-5011
http://www.ordinarywords.com
Editors: Danish Ahmed, Steve Rogers, Andrei Losinski, Naz Ahmed

Do you know anybody else who would enjoy reading these articles? Please feel free to forward this newsletter to your family, friends, and associates.

Sent: Sunday, January 18, 2004
Subject: DoD: Fear Factors & Google

Welcome to the Distinctions e-Zine...
Simple. Relatable. Powerful.
The art of effective communication.

In this issue:
1. Fear Factors: 4 Simple Steps to Feel the Fear...And Do It Anyway!
2. The Power of Google
3. Distinctions that Make a Difference!

- - - - - - - - - -
"...But if you only have love for your own race
Then you only leave space to discriminate
And to discriminate only generates hate
And when you hate then you're bound to get irate, yeah...
Yo', whatever happened to the values of humanity
Whatever happened to the fairness in equality
Instead [of] spreading love we spreading animosity
Lack of understanding, leading lives away from unity..."
- Black Eyed Peas, "Where's the Love?"

"Some of the best things in life are total mistakes."
- Uma Thurman, Paycheck (2003, Source Writer: Philip K. Dick)

"At the end of the day, it's a job, it's not who we are. We decide who we are."
- Al Pacino, The Recruit (2003, Screenwriters: Towne, Wimmer, Goldsman & Glazer)
- - - - - - - - - -

Fear Factors: 4 Simple Steps to Feel the Fear...And Do It Anyway!

1. Feel It.

This can be the most difficult step. It's natural to want to get past our fear and not feel any anxiety. In our attempts to "overcome" fear, we tend to sometimes ignore it or suppress it... That doesn't always work. All our fears have a specific purpose, and the only way to uncover a fear's purpose is to start by accepting it -- by feeling the fear.

2. Express It.

Talk to someone about your fear. This can be a friend, a colleague, or just someone you trust. You can also talk yourself through it. What's going on? What specifically are you fearful about? Take the time to explore your emotions.

3. Appreciate It.

Perhaps we're not well prepared, and that's why we're fearful. The fear is giving us a signal to prepare. Perhaps we've prepared as much as possible, and the fear is telling us that we simply need to build our confidence around the issue. Believe in yourself -- you have gotten through difficult and challenging situations before. Fear can give us powerful signals that can make a big difference, if we listen and act upon them.

4. Use It.

Fear can make our bodies shake -- smile and look excited. Fear can make our hearts pound -- use the adrenaline rush to boost your passion and determination. Take action! This isn't easy; it just takes remembering and practicing. Soon, you'll love the sensations of fear, because they'll propel you to do the things you once thought impossible.

Are You Taking Action?

Many personal development programs end with an "Action Step." This makes sense because many people learn what to do, but then they don't do what they've learned!

After doing so many programs, I found the action steps to be repetitive or inappropriate for my specific needs at the time. So rather than asking you to do something that may not relate to your present circumstances, I want to ask you to do SOMETHING. You choose. What's going on in your life that you want to move forward on? Is there something that you've been fearful about and haven't taken any action towards?

Now is the time.
- - - - - - - - - -

"Every invention is a manipulation of a current reality."
- Danish Ahmed

"The most powerful spiritual component is connection."
- Steve Rogers

"Life is a gift of experiencing evolution, through the lessons of love."
- Danish Ahmed
- - - - - - - - - -

The Power of Google

I was watching the movie, Paycheck, and suddenly I heard a quote I wanted to write down. I took out my notebook in the darkened theatre and scribbled what I had just heard.

A couple of days later, as I was going through my notes, I couldn't figure out what the words were! It was frustrating, because I thought it was an amazing quote -- but I wasn't going to pay admission again nor sit through the whole movie to get a one-liner!

"Some of the best things in life are [XXX] mistakes." That's what I could read. What could that XXX word be? I couldn't just make it up. I thought, and thought... Then, I went to Google.

I typed in ["Some of the best things in life are" Paycheck] and low and behold, the first link in the list gave me my answer. The answer, by the way, is at the top of this e-zine.
- - - - - - - - - -

Distinctions that Make a Difference!

"[Danish's] emails are unlike any I receive. I'm very grateful to have met [him] at the Atlanta convention in August. Nancy, and I were inspired by [his] workshop. The distinctions that [Danish] writes about are empowering for me..."
- PG Bluett, Academic Instructor, Cleveland Job Corps, Ohio

"I cried after reading the Self-Empowerment Pledge and the feedback from Michael Farago [regarding the article] `7 Ways to Give.' This is something I need and appreciate especially now as I have committed to strive for a higher level of healing and thriving in my life. Who knows how I got on your email list. I'm just thankful I did!"
- April A. Severin, Author of Anura website
- - - - - - - - - -

"If you don't want to get into positive thinking, that's OK. Just eliminate all the negative thoughts from your mind, and whatever's left will be fine."
- Bob Rotella, Sports Psychologist

"Nothing can resolve the will of a people that will stake even their existence on the extent of their purpose for good."
- Benjamin Disraeli (1804-1881)

"I can't try to save humanity, without holding on to what makes me human."
- Captain Jonathan Archer (Scott Bakula), Star Trek: Enterprise
- - - - - - - - - -

Order "A Dictionary of Distinctions" online at Chapters:
Click http://www.chapters.indigo.ca/item.asp?Catalog=Books&Item=978097313600

Subscribe to this free newsletter by sending an e-mail to join-distinctions@mh.databack.com
Unsubscribe by sending an e-mail to leave-distinctions@mh.databack.com

(c) Copyright Ordinary Words Inc., 2000-2004. All rights reserved.
34 Woodrow Ave., Toronto, Canada M4C-5S2 +1 (647) 439-5011
http://www.ordinarywords.com

Do you know anybody else who would enjoy reading these articles? Please feel free to forward this newsletter to your family, friends, and associates.

Sent: Thursday, January 1, 2004
Subject: DoD: START your New Year POWERFULLY!

Welcome to the Distinctions e-Zine...
Simple. Relatable. Powerful.
The art of effective communication.

- - - - - - - - - -
"All you have to do is decide what to do with the time that is given to you."
- Gandalf (Ian McKellen), Lord of the Rings (2003, Source Writer: J. R. R. Tolkien)

"Don't stop, never give up, \ Hold your head high and reach the top. \ Let the world see what you have got, \ Bring it all back to you."
- S Club 7, "Bring It All Back"

". . . intuition is really a sudden immersion of the soul into the universal current of life, where the histories of all people are connected, and we are able to know everything, because it's all written there."
- Paulo Coelho, "The Alchemist"
- - - - - - - - - -

The Best of Personal Development

As I continually explore new realms of personal development, I sometimes come across things that truly stand out. What's exciting is that I get to share the best-of-the-best with readers like you :). The following pledge is an example of a very simple tool that can make a profound difference in the way we think, the way we feel, and the way we behave. Created by professional speaker and friend, Joe Tye, the pledge is a concise model of core values that can transform our being. Reading (and speaking) this pledge is a great way to START our New Year POWERFULLY!

THE SELF EMPOWERMENT PLEDGE
Seven Simple Promises That Will Change Your Life

Monday's Promise: Responsibility
I will take complete responsibility for my health, my happiness, my success, and my life, and will not blame others for my problems.

Tuesday's Promise: Accountability
I will not allow low self-esteem, self-limiting beliefs, or the negativity of others to prevent me from achieving my authentic goals and from becoming the person I am meant to be.

[Mini-Distinction: Responsibility is accepting who we are now and embracing our circumstances. Accountability is taking ownership of who we will become, by measuring our progress and keeping it in line with our new values, goals, and dreams.]

Wednesday's Promise: Determination
I will do the things I'm afraid to do, but which I know should be done. Sometimes this will mean asking for help to do that which I cannot do by myself.

Thursday's Promise: Contribution
I will earn the help I need in advance by helping other people now, and repay the help I receive by serving others later.

Friday's Promise: Resilience
I will face rejection and failure with courage, awareness, and perseverance, making these experiences the platform for future acceptance and success.

Saturday's Promise: Choice
I will have faith that, though I might not understand why adversity happens, by my conscious choice I can find strength, compassion, and grace through my trials.

[Mini-Distinction: Resilience is the ability to persist through our hardships. Choice is the power to find/create meaning from those hardships.]

Sunday's Promise: Faith
My faith and my gratitude for all that I have been blessed with will shine through in my attitudes and in my actions.

[Consider reading each promise on the designated day of the week, and repeat this pattern for several weeks. This is not an easy task -- it can take some time to develop the discipline. What helps me personally is seeing the pledge on my dresser every morning. What can help you to get into this habit? You'll be amazed at the difference it will make . . .]

Copyright (c) 2002, Paradox 21 Inc. Reproduced with permission. http://www.joetye.com

[*** Joe just wrote me an e-mail and said that I could offer all my subscribers a FREE mini-poster of The Self Empowerment Pledge. Just send an e-mail to joe@nfnq.com with your postal address and he'll send it out at NO charge. ***]
- - - - - - - - - -

"The source of action is `being' . . . `Being' is the conversation you are. [Internal dialogue, mind chatter, rackets, etc.] . . . Language is the health of being . . . Language is just not descriptive, it's creative."
- Dr. Herb Tanzer, EST Trainer, co-creator of The Landmark Forum

"It's amazing how naive we are, until we know."
- Steve Rogers

"Faith is when a possible success becomes an inevitable future."
- Danish Ahmed
- - - - - - - - - -

Distinctions that Make a Difference!

"With respect to your newsletter, `7 Ways to Give', I did follow your advice and experimented with different ways of giving this year. Over the past few days I have invited a friend over to my condo unit several times. She is going through a difficult period in her life and I shared my space with her and I gave her my listening . . . I told her that I have faith in her ability to resolve all the issues she needs to resolve. [My friend] felt incredibly grateful for what I had given her."
- Michael Farago, Associate Counsel to the Chair, Workplace Safety & Insurance

"[Danish's] life's choices - past and present - need to be heard for the example they offer of life beyond limitation."
- Lissa Bergin-Boles, Broadcaster
- - - - - - - - - -

"It is less important to redistribute wealth than it is to redistribute opportunity."
- Arthur Vandenberg (1884-1951), Politician

"Business is created and sustained through relationships."
- Scott Stratten, www.Un-Marketing.com

"You can discover more about a person in an hour of play than in a year of conversation."
- Plato (427-347 B.C.)
- - - - - - - - - -

Subscribe to this free newsletter by sending an e-mail to join-distinctions@mh.databack.com
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(c) Copyright Ordinary Words Inc., 2000-2004. All rights reserved.
34 Woodrow Ave., Toronto, Canada M4C-5S2 +1 (647) 439-5011
http://www.ordinarywords.com