1
All decisions we’ve come to accept as right or wrong are ingrained in us from the society in which we abide. Rights and wrongs are not universally known or transferable.JohnTalmage Mathis
2
The truth is, living in any society is difficult. Those who become desperate with a fractured sense of security are much more prone to being taken advantaged of.JohnTalmage Mathis
3
Let your strength from the pastprovide proof of your abilities to .. .conquer the difficulties of the present.JohnTalmage Mathis
4
Creativity and passion dwindle when hungry. Premiums for talent are easier to demand when desperation isn’t part of the equation. If I’m established, I can demand $350 an hour. If I’m desperate, I may accept $5.JohnTalmage Mathis
5
Don’t forget: Ruts aren’t that much different .. .from graves.JohnTalmage Mathis
6
My first bit of advice is to not personalize a job loss. The cause for the dismissal was a business calculation. This is difficult for many to grasp; it’s difficult to accept that events just occur. Come to see this as an experience. Obviously not the most pleasant experience, but it is one that you’ll overcome.JohnTalmage Mathis
7
Life is about finding .. .what works best for you.JohnTalmage Mathis
8
Life isn’t fair. It doesn’t make sense. This unfairness is felt by everyone, from the Las Vegas tunnel dweller all the way to the executive in the high-rise. To some, these “unfair” experiences become a chastening ball and chain attached for the remainder of life.JohnTalmage Mathis
9
Don’t allow past experiences to be forgotten. Hold them close.JohnTalmage Mathis
10
When the noise is gone, and the air is still .. .prepare for survival.JohnTalmage Mathis
11
The ordeals of others .. .prepare us, andlater become the compass .. .in our time of ordeal.JohnTalmage Mathis
12
Electricity, shelter, and a safe place to sleep .. .trump the need to preserve your credit score, orpurchase a new gizmo.JohnTalmage Mathis
13
Preparation:allows you to prevent .. .the intensity of the ordeal.JohnTalmage Mathis
14
You’ve had many ordeals in the past. During these ordeals, life seemed unbearable. You may have collapsed from the exhaustion of hopelessness and curled into a fetal position. Regardless of how difficult this new ordeal may be, as with the others, this too will be overcome. It will make you stronger.JohnTalmage Mathis
15
The pain and shame felt are unknown to those with planned vacations. They know not of the tsunami that rescinded the homes, goals, and hopes of its victims–swallowed by the sea of greed.JohnTalmage Mathis