View allAll Photos Tagged Humility
A Mitra intrega as vestes litúrgicas usadas em importantes solenidades religiosas da Igreja Católica.
Esse exemplar faz parte da coleção de Dom Luciano Mendes de Oliveira, Arcebispo de Mariana, que se destacava pela sua humildade, liderança, carisma e cultura. Foto: Museu da Música -
Toda a história, importância, acervo musical e artístico desse grande centro cultural, pode ser pesquisado no meu álbum "MUSEU DA MÚSICA - MARIANA".
Cidade Histórica de Mariana - Minas Gerais - Brasil
ARTUR VITOR IANNINI
Email: arturiannini@yahoo.com.br
Mitra integrates the liturgical garments used in important religious solemnities of the Catholic Church. That copy is part of the collection of Dom Luciano Mendes de Almeida, Archbishop of Mariana, that stood out for his humility, leadership, charisma and culture.Photo: Museum of the Music - The whole history, importance, musical and artistic collection of that great cultural center, it can be researched at my album "MUSEUM OF THE MUSIC - MARIANA."
Historical City of Mariana - Minas Gerais State - Brazil
ARTUR VITOR IANNINI
Email: arturiannini@yahoo.com.br
If there is any advice Col. Kirk Gibbs can give to his successor, it is this: Lead with honor and humility.
As Gibbs, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Los Angeles District’s 61st commander, prepares to relinquish command of the LA District July 19 to Col. Aaron Barta, he offered up some advice and reflected on the past three years as the leader of one of the largest Corps districts in the country.
There are many things Gibbs said he is proud of when it comes to the LA District, but three things stand out: the District being recognized two years in a row as a "Best Place to Work" in the Corps; completing Weed Army Hospital at Fort Irwin, California – the Department of Defense’s only Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design-Platinum, carbon-neutral, net-zero certifiable hospital – on time and within budget; and the one-on-one time he was able to spend with employees in the District.
It is the people Gibbs said he will miss the most – the employees and the District’s close partners across the four-state area.
“I have never focused on relationships like I have here in this District, and I sincerely believe it is part of the District's culture,” he said. “When projects are tough, the close relationships get us through those challenges and ultimately deliver the program.”
During his time with the LA District, Gibbs has overseen a multimillion-dollar program that provides engineering, construction, planning, contracting, real estate, emergency operations, environmental and regulatory services to military, federal, state and local governments across a 226,000-square-mile area of Southern California, Nevada, Arizona and Utah. That also includes leading about 750 military and civilian personnel with a wide array of expertise.
But leading people is nothing new to Gibbs, who has served for more than 24 years as an active-duty Soldier, leading both military and civilian personnel.
“Each person is different, and I have learned that good leaders get to know each person individually and then lead them in a way that brings out the best in that employee,” he said.
Providing priorities and a solid intent on the District’s missions, particularly disaster response operations, helps employees stay focused on what’s really important, he said.
Gibbs will now serve as the chief of staff at the Corps’ headquarters in Washington, D.C. There, he said, he hopes to be an advocate for all of the Corps’ districts nationwide.
“I feel that this District and the great people are responsible for giving me the incredible opportunity of being the Corps’ chief of staff,” he said. “The people have taught me so much, and I will take that with me to make a positive impact on the Corps’ enterprise and help our Districts deliver our programs in civil works, military, Interagency and International Services, real estate and regulatory.”
Gibbs knows how the importance of mentors and having a good support system have played in shaping his career, and he credits his parents with instilling in him respect for others; his wife, Kim, who taught him to endure all challenges, no matter how great, with grace and dignity; and his former chief of staff – Col. Steve Hill – for giving him tough jobs to prepare him for success.
“(Hill) gave me tough jobs that I thought he could have done at the time, but as I look back, the toughest assignments he gave me in that civilian organization at the Corps headquarters prepared me for District command and enabled me to achieve the goal of commanding at the battalion, brigade and District levels,” he said. “I also remember he told me I would be a chief of staff for the Corps one day. He was preparing me for that. I didn't believe him, but that is my next job.”
And, as for additional advice he can share with Barta, Gibbs provided these words of wisdom:
- Be prepared to change leadership style when leading a District of professional civilians. Don't lead them in the same way as Soldiers;
- Engage with people and get around to see them across the District's entire area of operation. Don't sit behind a desk;
- Study hard initially and learn the policies, processes and programs. “You will never be the expert, but you must prepare yourself to make effective decisions as quickly as possible”;
- Always provide a commander's intent and an end state. The civilian workforce appreciates that; and, lastly,
- Lead with honor and humility. “It isn't about you. It is about the District's people and our vital mission.”
As for the future of the LA District, Gibbs said he hopes future leaders continue to change the culture to an organization that is more risk tolerant in streamlining processes and moving projects forward; deliver the Department of Veterans Affairs and Customs and Border Protection programs phenomenally – on time, within budget and to the highest quality; and to remain a "Best Place to Work" in order to retain and recruit talent to the high-cost living area of Southern California.
“I want the District to do what it always does and ‘knock those programs out of the park,’” he said.
Dear Friends,
I want to let you know that I have just announced my candidacy for the United States Congress in the seat currently held by my friend, Congressman Robert Wexler, who is accepting a new position at the Center for Middle East Peace.
I make this announcement with great excitement and humility. I am gratified by the incredible encouragement and support that I have already received for this race, and I am extremely excited about the opportunity to be your voice in Congress.
Congressman Wexler served this community tirelessly for nineteen years. I am saddened to see him leave, but I am excited about the opportunity to continue to fight for the issues that he supports and that our community cares so desperately about.
Visit www.TedforCongress.com and Join Today!
This is a time of extraordinary challenges, both at home and abroad. I am running for Congress because I want to work hard every day to help solve the difficult challenges that the citizens of South Florida are currently facing.
I will bring to Congress the same strong work ethic and common sense that I took to Tallahassee. I am proud of the results that I have delivered in the Florida State Senate on education and seniors, health care, and through my initiative to ensure that the retirement funds of Florida’s workers do not support Iran’s illicit quest for nuclear weapons or genocide in Darfur.
Congressman Wexler will be leaving office in January which means his replacement will be filled by a special election that is just months away. This campaign will require an enormous amount of hard work, and if we are going to be successful, we will need to get to work immediately.
I am counting on the support of my friends and supporters who have seen my record of success in Tallahassee and my willingness to work hard to get results. Please join the campaign by going to www.tedforcongress.com, and consider making a financial contribution to my campaign.
Most Congressional campaigns are marathons - this one is a sprint. In order to win, I need lots of volunteers and workers, and I also need to raise over two million dollars in three months. This is no easy task, but with your help, I can do it.
Please Donate Today
You may contribute online today at my website, www.tedforcongress.com, or checks can be made payable to "Deutch for Congress" and sent to 20423 SR7, Suite f-6-383, Boca Raton, FL 33498.
I ask for your support to help me win a race for Congress. Please join my campaign today. I cannot wait to work on your behalf in the United States Congress.
My family and I thank you for your incredible support.
Warmest regards,
Senator Ted Deutch
P.S. Anything you can do to support my efforts is greatly appreciated. Please note that the maximum contribution an individual can make is $4,800 per person, and $9,600 per couple. Corporate contributions are forbidden by federal law.
P.P.S. Please forward this message to your friends and family, and ask them to join our campaign and contribute at www.TedForCongress.com.
Here is some information about me to share with your friends:
Senator Deutch Ideally Situated Senate District Make Him a Formidable Candidate
Senator Deutch’s senate district is ideally situated for a successful congressional campaign for the 19th District seat. Deutch already represents many more voters in the 19th District then any other elected official. In fact, Deutch currently represents almost half of the district’s voters. Wexler also represented this senate district prior to his successful run for Congress. Also like Deutch’s current state senate district, the 19th District is overwhelmingly located in Palm Beach County.
About Senator Ted Deutch
Senator Ted Deutch is an accomplished legislator who has passed legislation on critical issues that have benefited seniors, public education, national security, and victims of the Holocaust. Deutch, 43, was elected to the Florida State Senate in November 2006. His state senate district is largely located in Palm Beach County and includes some portions of north Broward County.
Deutch received national recognition and testified before Congress for his successful legislative efforts ensuring that the retirement funds of Florida workers to not support Iran’s illicit quest for nuclear weapons or genocide in Darfur. In 2009, Senator Deutch passed legislation that will reduce youth smoking and fund up to $1 billion in critical health care programs in Florida, including $50 million per year in dedicated cancer research funding.
In the Senate, Deutch has also passed legislation protecting children, improving health care insurance for seniors, and through his efforts he helped secure a new senior center in Palm Beach County.
Ted’s commitment to public service earned him the prestigious Harry S Truman Scholarship and his civic and philanthropic work earned him the James and Marjorie Baer Leadership Award from the Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County. He also has been honored for his efforts in the State Senate, most recently being named National Distinguished Advocacy Award by the American Cancer society, and receiving the Florida Education Association’s Champion of Public Education Award.
A native of Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, Ted is the son of Jean Deutch and the late Bernard Deutch, who earned a Purple Heart serving his country during World War II. A graduate of the University of Michigan and the University of Michigan Law School, Ted is an attorney with the Florida law firm of Broad and Cassel. He currently lives in Boca Raton, Florida with his wife of 18 years, Jill, his 14 year-old twin daughters, Gabrielle and Serena and his 10 year-old son, Cole.
For more information visit www.tedforcongress.com
If there is any advice Col. Kirk Gibbs can give to his successor, it is this: Lead with honor and humility.
As Gibbs, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Los Angeles District’s 61st commander, prepares to relinquish command of the LA District July 19 to Col. Aaron Barta, he offered up some advice and reflected on the past three years as the leader of one of the largest Corps districts in the country.
There are many things Gibbs said he is proud of when it comes to the LA District, but three things stand out: the District being recognized two years in a row as a "Best Place to Work" in the Corps; completing Weed Army Hospital at Fort Irwin, California – the Department of Defense’s only Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design-Platinum, carbon-neutral, net-zero certifiable hospital – on time and within budget; and the one-on-one time he was able to spend with employees in the District.
It is the people Gibbs said he will miss the most – the employees and the District’s close partners across the four-state area.
“I have never focused on relationships like I have here in this District, and I sincerely believe it is part of the District's culture,” he said. “When projects are tough, the close relationships get us through those challenges and ultimately deliver the program.”
During his time with the LA District, Gibbs has overseen a multimillion-dollar program that provides engineering, construction, planning, contracting, real estate, emergency operations, environmental and regulatory services to military, federal, state and local governments across a 226,000-square-mile area of Southern California, Nevada, Arizona and Utah. That also includes leading about 750 military and civilian personnel with a wide array of expertise.
But leading people is nothing new to Gibbs, who has served for more than 24 years as an active-duty Soldier, leading both military and civilian personnel.
“Each person is different, and I have learned that good leaders get to know each person individually and then lead them in a way that brings out the best in that employee,” he said.
Providing priorities and a solid intent on the District’s missions, particularly disaster response operations, helps employees stay focused on what’s really important, he said.
Gibbs will now serve as the chief of staff at the Corps’ headquarters in Washington, D.C. There, he said, he hopes to be an advocate for all of the Corps’ districts nationwide.
“I feel that this District and the great people are responsible for giving me the incredible opportunity of being the Corps’ chief of staff,” he said. “The people have taught me so much, and I will take that with me to make a positive impact on the Corps’ enterprise and help our Districts deliver our programs in civil works, military, Interagency and International Services, real estate and regulatory.”
Gibbs knows how the importance of mentors and having a good support system have played in shaping his career, and he credits his parents with instilling in him respect for others; his wife, Kim, who taught him to endure all challenges, no matter how great, with grace and dignity; and his former chief of staff – Col. Steve Hill – for giving him tough jobs to prepare him for success.
“(Hill) gave me tough jobs that I thought he could have done at the time, but as I look back, the toughest assignments he gave me in that civilian organization at the Corps headquarters prepared me for District command and enabled me to achieve the goal of commanding at the battalion, brigade and District levels,” he said. “I also remember he told me I would be a chief of staff for the Corps one day. He was preparing me for that. I didn't believe him, but that is my next job.”
And, as for additional advice he can share with Barta, Gibbs provided these words of wisdom:
- Be prepared to change leadership style when leading a District of professional civilians. Don't lead them in the same way as Soldiers;
- Engage with people and get around to see them across the District's entire area of operation. Don't sit behind a desk;
- Study hard initially and learn the policies, processes and programs. “You will never be the expert, but you must prepare yourself to make effective decisions as quickly as possible”;
- Always provide a commander's intent and an end state. The civilian workforce appreciates that; and, lastly,
- Lead with honor and humility. “It isn't about you. It is about the District's people and our vital mission.”
As for the future of the LA District, Gibbs said he hopes future leaders continue to change the culture to an organization that is more risk tolerant in streamlining processes and moving projects forward; deliver the Department of Veterans Affairs and Customs and Border Protection programs phenomenally – on time, within budget and to the highest quality; and to remain a "Best Place to Work" in order to retain and recruit talent to the high-cost living area of Southern California.
“I want the District to do what it always does and ‘knock those programs out of the park,’” he said.
Dear Friends,
I want to let you know that I have just announced my candidacy for the United States Congress in the seat currently held by my friend, Congressman Robert Wexler, who is accepting a new position at the Center for Middle East Peace.
I make this announcement with great excitement and humility. I am gratified by the incredible encouragement and support that I have already received for this race, and I am extremely excited about the opportunity to be your voice in Congress.
Congressman Wexler served this community tirelessly for nineteen years. I am saddened to see him leave, but I am excited about the opportunity to continue to fight for the issues that he supports and that our community cares so desperately about.
Visit www.TedForCongress.com and Join Today!
This is a time of extraordinary challenges, both at home and abroad. I am running for Congress because I want to work hard every day to help solve the difficult challenges that the citizens of South Florida are currently facing.
I will bring to Congress the same strong work ethic and common sense that I took to Tallahassee. I am proud of the results that I have delivered in the Florida State Senate on education and seniors, health care, and through my initiative to ensure that the retirement funds of Florida’s workers do not support Iran’s illicit quest for nuclear weapons or genocide in Darfur.
Congressman Wexler will be leaving office in January which means his replacement will be filled by a special election that is just months away. This campaign will require an enormous amount of hard work, and if we are going to be successful, we will need to get to work immediately.
I am counting on the support of my friends and supporters who have seen my record of success in Tallahassee and my willingness to work hard to get results. Please join the campaign by going to www.tedforcongress.com, and consider making a financial contribution to my campaign.
Most Congressional campaigns are marathons - this one is a sprint. In order to win, I need lots of volunteers and workers, and I also need to raise over two million dollars in three months. This is no easy task, but with your help, I can do it.
Please Donate Today
You may contribute online today at my website, www.tedforcongress.com, or checks can be made payable to "Deutch for Congress" and sent to 20423 SR7, Suite f-6-383, Boca Raton, FL 33498.
I ask for your support to help me win a race for Congress. Please join my campaign today. I cannot wait to work on your behalf in the United States Congress.
My family and I thank you for your incredible support.
Warmest regards,
Senator Ted Deutch
P.S. Anything you can do to support my efforts is greatly appreciated. Please note that the maximum contribution an individual can make is $4,800 per person, and $9,600 per couple. Corporate contributions are forbidden by federal law.
P.P.S. Please forward this message to your friends and family, and ask them to join our campaign and contribute at www.TedForCongress.com.
Here is some information about me to share with your friends:
Senator Deutch Ideally Situated Senate District Make Him a Formidable Candidate
Senator Deutch’s senate district is ideally situated for a successful congressional campaign for the 19th District seat. Deutch already represents many more voters in the 19th District then any other elected official. In fact, Deutch currently represents almost half of the district’s voters. Wexler also represented this senate district prior to his successful run for Congress. Also like Deutch’s current state senate district, the 19th District is overwhelmingly located in Palm Beach County.
About Senator Ted Deutch
Senator Ted Deutch is an accomplished legislator who has passed legislation on critical issues that have benefited seniors, public education, national security, and victims of the Holocaust. Deutch, 43, was elected to the Florida State Senate in November 2006. His state senate district is largely located in Palm Beach County and includes some portions of north Broward County.
Deutch received national recognition and testified before Congress for his successful legislative efforts ensuring that the retirement funds of Florida workers to not support Iran’s illicit quest for nuclear weapons or genocide in Darfur. In 2009, Senator Deutch passed legislation that will reduce youth smoking and fund up to $1 billion in critical health care programs in Florida, including $50 million per year in dedicated cancer research funding.
In the Senate, Deutch has also passed legislation protecting children, improving health care insurance for seniors, and through his efforts he helped secure a new senior center in Palm Beach County.
Ted’s commitment to public service earned him the prestigious Harry S Truman Scholarship and his civic and philanthropic work earned him the James and Marjorie Baer Leadership Award from the Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County. He also has been honored for his efforts in the State Senate, most recently being named National Distinguished Advocacy Award by the American Cancer society, and receiving the Florida Education Association’s Champion of Public Education Award.
A native of Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, Ted is the son of Jean Deutch and the late Bernard Deutch, who earned a Purple Heart serving his country during World War II. A graduate of the University of Michigan and the University of Michigan Law School, Ted is an attorney with the Florida law firm of Broad and Cassel. He currently lives in Boca Raton, Florida with his wife of 18 years, Jill, his 14 year-old twin daughters, Gabrielle and Serena and his 10 year-old son, Cole.
For more information visit www.tedforcongress.com
If there is any advice Col. Kirk Gibbs can give to his successor, it is this: Lead with honor and humility.
As Gibbs, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Los Angeles District’s 61st commander, prepares to relinquish command of the LA District July 19 to Col. Aaron Barta, he offered up some advice and reflected on the past three years as the leader of one of the largest Corps districts in the country.
There are many things Gibbs said he is proud of when it comes to the LA District, but three things stand out: the District being recognized two years in a row as a "Best Place to Work" in the Corps; completing Weed Army Hospital at Fort Irwin, California – the Department of Defense’s only Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design-Platinum, carbon-neutral, net-zero certifiable hospital – on time and within budget; and the one-on-one time he was able to spend with employees in the District.
It is the people Gibbs said he will miss the most – the employees and the District’s close partners across the four-state area.
“I have never focused on relationships like I have here in this District, and I sincerely believe it is part of the District's culture,” he said. “When projects are tough, the close relationships get us through those challenges and ultimately deliver the program.”
During his time with the LA District, Gibbs has overseen a multimillion-dollar program that provides engineering, construction, planning, contracting, real estate, emergency operations, environmental and regulatory services to military, federal, state and local governments across a 226,000-square-mile area of Southern California, Nevada, Arizona and Utah. That also includes leading about 750 military and civilian personnel with a wide array of expertise.
But leading people is nothing new to Gibbs, who has served for more than 24 years as an active-duty Soldier, leading both military and civilian personnel.
“Each person is different, and I have learned that good leaders get to know each person individually and then lead them in a way that brings out the best in that employee,” he said.
Providing priorities and a solid intent on the District’s missions, particularly disaster response operations, helps employees stay focused on what’s really important, he said.
Gibbs will now serve as the chief of staff at the Corps’ headquarters in Washington, D.C. There, he said, he hopes to be an advocate for all of the Corps’ districts nationwide.
“I feel that this District and the great people are responsible for giving me the incredible opportunity of being the Corps’ chief of staff,” he said. “The people have taught me so much, and I will take that with me to make a positive impact on the Corps’ enterprise and help our Districts deliver our programs in civil works, military, Interagency and International Services, real estate and regulatory.”
Gibbs knows how the importance of mentors and having a good support system have played in shaping his career, and he credits his parents with instilling in him respect for others; his wife, Kim, who taught him to endure all challenges, no matter how great, with grace and dignity; and his former chief of staff – Col. Steve Hill – for giving him tough jobs to prepare him for success.
“(Hill) gave me tough jobs that I thought he could have done at the time, but as I look back, the toughest assignments he gave me in that civilian organization at the Corps headquarters prepared me for District command and enabled me to achieve the goal of commanding at the battalion, brigade and District levels,” he said. “I also remember he told me I would be a chief of staff for the Corps one day. He was preparing me for that. I didn't believe him, but that is my next job.”
And, as for additional advice he can share with Barta, Gibbs provided these words of wisdom:
- Be prepared to change leadership style when leading a District of professional civilians. Don't lead them in the same way as Soldiers;
- Engage with people and get around to see them across the District's entire area of operation. Don't sit behind a desk;
- Study hard initially and learn the policies, processes and programs. “You will never be the expert, but you must prepare yourself to make effective decisions as quickly as possible”;
- Always provide a commander's intent and an end state. The civilian workforce appreciates that; and, lastly,
- Lead with honor and humility. “It isn't about you. It is about the District's people and our vital mission.”
As for the future of the LA District, Gibbs said he hopes future leaders continue to change the culture to an organization that is more risk tolerant in streamlining processes and moving projects forward; deliver the Department of Veterans Affairs and Customs and Border Protection programs phenomenally – on time, within budget and to the highest quality; and to remain a "Best Place to Work" in order to retain and recruit talent to the high-cost living area of Southern California.
“I want the District to do what it always does and ‘knock those programs out of the park,’” he said.
Vidhya Lakshmi is four-armed, dressed in white garments. She carries two lotuses each in her two hands, abhaya mudra and Varada mudra in other two hands.
Vidhya Lakshmi will give you all the 18 qualities for immortality such as Serenity, Regularity, Absence of Vanity, Sincerity, Simplicity, Veracity, Equanimity, Fixity, Non-irritability, Adaptability, Humility, Tenacity, Integrity, Nobility, Magnanimity, Charity, Generosity and purity.
She gives knowledge to mould the ordinary life into the divine life. A life of service, a life of feeling for a fellow being, a life of charity and generosity, a life of purity, a life for seeking a soul within the soul and a life with an ultimate aim of realization of the absolute is the only real education, which can come only with the grace of Vidhya Lakshmi
Wisdom means understanding cosmic secrets, opening of seven Chakras of our body, nirvana etc. Goddess Vidhaya Lakshmi rules also those elements. In exams besides study luck is also major fact to gain good marks. By doing Vidhaya Lakshmi homam it may be easy for you in exam.
If your child doesn't study and obey you then Vidhaya Lakshmi homam may be helpful. Vidhaya Lakshmi homam is helpful to students, researchers, writers etc. It is also helpful to people who practicing the Seven Chakras awaking Sadhana.
Vidhya is education. Education is not mere studies to receive the degrees and diplomas certificates from the educational institutes or universities but it is to make you more human. Education, which cannot give peace to the soul or cannot give the knowledge of the Self and the inner satisfaction, is not education.Education, which cannot wipe the tears of others, known or unknown, is not education. Education is the understanding the situation and silence or art of living and leading the life that can make the life, the Life Divine, where the ultimate Goal of the life is the God-Realisation. Such Education can come only through discrimination and dispassion. One can have abundant amount of money, but if he does not know how to make good use of it, it will work to his disadvantage. If an alcoholic or a drug addict gets a big sum of money, it will only hasten his downward journey to destruction.
Vidhya Lakshmi is the understanding and the knowledge to mold the ordinary life into the Divine Life. A life of Service, a life of feeling for a fellow being, a life of charity and generosity, a life of purity, a life for seeking a soul within the soul and a life with an ultimate aim of the realization is the only real education, which can come only with the grace of Vidhya Lakshmi.
What is done in Vidhya Lakshmi Homa?
Goddess Vidhya Lakshmi Devi who appears to the devotees as seated on the lotus flower, blossoms the life of others when sacred rhythms and chants are recited and dedicated to her. She is dressed in grand attire, decorated with flowers and jewels and offered Prasad. Priests chant her divine name in multiples of hundreds and make her presence feel, who thereby blossoms your life like the lotus she is seated on!
Japas or mantras are recited accordingly for each Homa by a sacred group of priests who are authenticated, devoted and sincere. It is essential that a Japam (mantra) is spelled rightly for the right effect. And, our group of expert priests makes sure that they perform the Homa in the authentic and traditional way with the right syllable for the right effect!
It is known to spiritual people that at the end of every Homa, sacrificial ghee (clarified butter), clothes and other divine things are offered to the fire—Agni Devatha. Once the fire swallows all these divine offerings, it bestows the people assembled for the gathering and the performer with all that they ask for. It is believed that Goddess Vidhya Lakshmi Devi is present all over virtually and blesses and grants your wishes in person!
What Will I Receive?
Vidhya Lakshmi Devi Homa—Get the greatest wisdom and knowledge in your life !
If you perform this Homa, your life which seemed so struggled and tough will blossom out like a lotus flower teaching you the right way to live very peacefully!
After performing the Homa, we will send over the Prasad (vermillion/sacred ash). If you are able to attend the Homa, you will be given the Prasad in person, or else this will be sent over to you. Please be informed that it might take 4-7 business days for your Prasad to reach you.
Participate Now
Watch your Homam on LIVE VF TV in this page after booking :
vedicfolks.info/live-relay.aspx
www.vedicfolks.com/channel/index.php
www.vedicfolks.com/education/karma-remedies/shared-homam/...
Photos by Miller Taylor.
April 2015 CreativeMornings/Raleigh event (global theme: Humility) with guest speakers Mike and Megan Gilger, husband and wife creative team behind Wild Measure studio and The Fresh Exchange blog.
In 2009, Megan and Mike began their lifestyle and design blog, The Fresh Exchange Today, the blog reaches over a half million people everyday, inspiring creators of all kinds to pursue their dreams and live a beautiful and intentional life. The creative couple works together to create original content through photo, video, editorial writing, aesthetic curation, and social media. With a simple, natural, and organic nature to their content, Megan and Mike have had the opportunity to work with brands such as Smartwater, Bing, Gap, Madewell, Bota Box, Levi’s, Feedly, Kinfolk Magazine, Over, Warby Parker, Tuft & Needle, Shinola, and many others.
Special thanks to our host CAM Raleigh and sponsors CompostNow, Counter Culture Coffee, who generously provided us with complimentary coffee, Yellow Dog Bread Company, who provided the tasty breakfast snacks, and Raleigh Raw , who provided the healthy, cold-pressed juice.
The village of Brushford, Somerset, lies just over one mile south of Dulverton.
The parish church of Saint Nicholas as seen today probably dates from the 13th century, although the Norman font hints at an earlier foundation.
The church has a number of stained glass windows. This photograph shows one of the three figures from a window in the north wall of the church dedicated to the memory of George Frederick White who died in 1898. In this case the figure represents Humility.
If there is any advice Col. Kirk Gibbs can give to his successor, it is this: Lead with honor and humility.
As Gibbs, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Los Angeles District’s 61st commander, prepares to relinquish command of the LA District July 19 to Col. Aaron Barta, he offered up some advice and reflected on the past three years as the leader of one of the largest Corps districts in the country.
There are many things Gibbs said he is proud of when it comes to the LA District, but three things stand out: the District being recognized two years in a row as a "Best Place to Work" in the Corps; completing Weed Army Hospital at Fort Irwin, California – the Department of Defense’s only Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design-Platinum, carbon-neutral, net-zero certifiable hospital – on time and within budget; and the one-on-one time he was able to spend with employees in the District.
It is the people Gibbs said he will miss the most – the employees and the District’s close partners across the four-state area.
“I have never focused on relationships like I have here in this District, and I sincerely believe it is part of the District's culture,” he said. “When projects are tough, the close relationships get us through those challenges and ultimately deliver the program.”
During his time with the LA District, Gibbs has overseen a multimillion-dollar program that provides engineering, construction, planning, contracting, real estate, emergency operations, environmental and regulatory services to military, federal, state and local governments across a 226,000-square-mile area of Southern California, Nevada, Arizona and Utah. That also includes leading about 750 military and civilian personnel with a wide array of expertise.
But leading people is nothing new to Gibbs, who has served for more than 24 years as an active-duty Soldier, leading both military and civilian personnel.
“Each person is different, and I have learned that good leaders get to know each person individually and then lead them in a way that brings out the best in that employee,” he said.
Providing priorities and a solid intent on the District’s missions, particularly disaster response operations, helps employees stay focused on what’s really important, he said.
Gibbs will now serve as the chief of staff at the Corps’ headquarters in Washington, D.C. There, he said, he hopes to be an advocate for all of the Corps’ districts nationwide.
“I feel that this District and the great people are responsible for giving me the incredible opportunity of being the Corps’ chief of staff,” he said. “The people have taught me so much, and I will take that with me to make a positive impact on the Corps’ enterprise and help our Districts deliver our programs in civil works, military, Interagency and International Services, real estate and regulatory.”
Gibbs knows how the importance of mentors and having a good support system have played in shaping his career, and he credits his parents with instilling in him respect for others; his wife, Kim, who taught him to endure all challenges, no matter how great, with grace and dignity; and his former chief of staff – Col. Steve Hill – for giving him tough jobs to prepare him for success.
“(Hill) gave me tough jobs that I thought he could have done at the time, but as I look back, the toughest assignments he gave me in that civilian organization at the Corps headquarters prepared me for District command and enabled me to achieve the goal of commanding at the battalion, brigade and District levels,” he said. “I also remember he told me I would be a chief of staff for the Corps one day. He was preparing me for that. I didn't believe him, but that is my next job.”
And, as for additional advice he can share with Barta, Gibbs provided these words of wisdom:
- Be prepared to change leadership style when leading a District of professional civilians. Don't lead them in the same way as Soldiers;
- Engage with people and get around to see them across the District's entire area of operation. Don't sit behind a desk;
- Study hard initially and learn the policies, processes and programs. “You will never be the expert, but you must prepare yourself to make effective decisions as quickly as possible”;
- Always provide a commander's intent and an end state. The civilian workforce appreciates that; and, lastly,
- Lead with honor and humility. “It isn't about you. It is about the District's people and our vital mission.”
As for the future of the LA District, Gibbs said he hopes future leaders continue to change the culture to an organization that is more risk tolerant in streamlining processes and moving projects forward; deliver the Department of Veterans Affairs and Customs and Border Protection programs phenomenally – on time, within budget and to the highest quality; and to remain a "Best Place to Work" in order to retain and recruit talent to the high-cost living area of Southern California.
“I want the District to do what it always does and ‘knock those programs out of the park,’” he said.
Dear Friends,
I want to let you know that I have just announced my candidacy for the United States Congress in the seat currently held by my friend, Congressman Robert Wexler, who is accepting a new position at the Center for Middle East Peace.
I make this announcement with great excitement and humility. I am gratified by the incredible encouragement and support that I have already received for this race, and I am extremely excited about the opportunity to be your voice in Congress.
Congressman Wexler served this community tirelessly for nineteen years. I am saddened to see him leave, but I am excited about the opportunity to continue to fight for the issues that he supports and that our community cares so desperately about.
Visit www.TedForCongress.com and Join Today!
This is a time of extraordinary challenges, both at home and abroad. I am running for Congress because I want to work hard every day to help solve the difficult challenges that the citizens of South Florida are currently facing.
I will bring to Congress the same strong work ethic and common sense that I took to Tallahassee. I am proud of the results that I have delivered in the Florida State Senate on education and seniors, health care, and through my initiative to ensure that the retirement funds of Florida’s workers do not support Iran’s illicit quest for nuclear weapons or genocide in Darfur.
Congressman Wexler will be leaving office in January which means his replacement will be filled by a special election that is just months away. This campaign will require an enormous amount of hard work, and if we are going to be successful, we will need to get to work immediately.
I am counting on the support of my friends and supporters who have seen my record of success in Tallahassee and my willingness to work hard to get results. Please join the campaign by going to www.tedforcongress.com, and consider making a financial contribution to my campaign.
Most Congressional campaigns are marathons - this one is a sprint. In order to win, I need lots of volunteers and workers, and I also need to raise over two million dollars in three months. This is no easy task, but with your help, I can do it.
Please Donate Today
You may contribute online today at my website, www.tedforcongress.com, or checks can be made payable to "Deutch for Congress" and sent to 20423 SR7, Suite f-6-383, Boca Raton, FL 33498.
I ask for your support to help me win a race for Congress. Please join my campaign today. I cannot wait to work on your behalf in the United States Congress.
My family and I thank you for your incredible support.
Warmest regards,
Senator Ted Deutch
P.S. Anything you can do to support my efforts is greatly appreciated. Please note that the maximum contribution an individual can make is $4,800 per person, and $9,600 per couple. Corporate contributions are forbidden by federal law.
P.P.S. Please forward this message to your friends and family, and ask them to join our campaign and contribute at www.TedForCongress.com.
Here is some information about me to share with your friends:
Senator Deutch Ideally Situated Senate District Make Him a Formidable Candidate
Senator Deutch’s senate district is ideally situated for a successful congressional campaign for the 19th District seat. Deutch already represents many more voters in the 19th District then any other elected official. In fact, Deutch currently represents almost half of the district’s voters. Wexler also represented this senate district prior to his successful run for Congress. Also like Deutch’s current state senate district, the 19th District is overwhelmingly located in Palm Beach County.
About Senator Ted Deutch
Senator Ted Deutch is an accomplished legislator who has passed legislation on critical issues that have benefited seniors, public education, national security, and victims of the Holocaust. Deutch, 43, was elected to the Florida State Senate in November 2006. His state senate district is largely located in Palm Beach County and includes some portions of north Broward County.
Deutch received national recognition and testified before Congress for his successful legislative efforts ensuring that the retirement funds of Florida workers to not support Iran’s illicit quest for nuclear weapons or genocide in Darfur. In 2009, Senator Deutch passed legislation that will reduce youth smoking and fund up to $1 billion in critical health care programs in Florida, including $50 million per year in dedicated cancer research funding.
In the Senate, Deutch has also passed legislation protecting children, improving health care insurance for seniors, and through his efforts he helped secure a new senior center in Palm Beach County.
Ted’s commitment to public service earned him the prestigious Harry S Truman Scholarship and his civic and philanthropic work earned him the James and Marjorie Baer Leadership Award from the Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County. He also has been honored for his efforts in the State Senate, most recently being named National Distinguished Advocacy Award by the American Cancer society, and receiving the Florida Education Association’s Champion of Public Education Award.
A native of Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, Ted is the son of Jean Deutch and the late Bernard Deutch, who earned a Purple Heart serving his country during World War II. A graduate of the University of Michigan and the University of Michigan Law School, Ted is an attorney with the Florida law firm of Broad and Cassel. He currently lives in Boca Raton, Florida with his wife of 18 years, Jill, his 14 year-old twin daughters, Gabrielle and Serena and his 10 year-old son, Cole.
For more information visit www.tedforcongress.com
The Genuine Salt Of Humility
" And before honor is humility. " [Proverbs 15:33]
Humiliation of soul always brings a positive blessing with it. If we empty our hearts of self, God will fill them with his love. He who desires close communion with Christ should remember the word of the Lord, “But on this one will I look: On him who is poor and of a contrite spirit, And who trembles at My word.” [Isa.66:22] Stoop if you would climb to heaven. Do we not say of Jesus, “He who descended is also the One who ascended?” [Eph.4:10] So must you. You must grow downwards, that you may grow upwards; for the sweetest fellowship with heaven is to be had by humble souls, and by them alone. God will deny no blessing to a thoroughly humbled spirit. “ Blessed are the poor in spirit, For theirs is the kingdom of heaven,” [Mat.5:3] with all its riches and treasures. The whole exchequer of God shall be made over by deed of gift to the soul which is humble enough to be able to receive it without growing proud because of it. God blesses us all up to the full measure and extremity of what it is safe for him to do. If you do not get a blessing, it is because it is not safe for you to have one. If our heavenly Father were to let your unhumbled spirit win a victory in His Holy war, you would pilfer the crown for yourself, and meeting with a fresh enemy you would fall a victim; so that you are kept low for your own safety. When a man is sincerely humble, and never ventures to touch so much as a grain of the praise, there is scarcely any limit to what God will do for him. Humility makes us ready to be blessed by the God of all grace, and fits us to deal efficiently with our fellow men. True humility is a flower which will adorn any garden. This is a sauce with which you may season every dish of life, and you will find an improvement in every case. Whether it be prayer or praise, whether it be work or suffering, the genuine salt of humility cannot be used in excess. Hallelujah God bless
O God, we kneel before Your Most Holy Presence.
With utmost Humility that we show our Love for You.
We bow our heads to seek Your Most Divine Grace.
That You may listen even in the meekness of our voice.
Amen.
If there is any advice Col. Kirk Gibbs can give to his successor, it is this: Lead with honor and humility.
As Gibbs, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Los Angeles District’s 61st commander, prepares to relinquish command of the LA District July 19 to Col. Aaron Barta, he offered up some advice and reflected on the past three years as the leader of one of the largest Corps districts in the country.
There are many things Gibbs said he is proud of when it comes to the LA District, but three things stand out: the District being recognized two years in a row as a "Best Place to Work" in the Corps; completing Weed Army Hospital at Fort Irwin, California – the Department of Defense’s only Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design-Platinum, carbon-neutral, net-zero certifiable hospital – on time and within budget; and the one-on-one time he was able to spend with employees in the District.
It is the people Gibbs said he will miss the most – the employees and the District’s close partners across the four-state area.
“I have never focused on relationships like I have here in this District, and I sincerely believe it is part of the District's culture,” he said. “When projects are tough, the close relationships get us through those challenges and ultimately deliver the program.”
During his time with the LA District, Gibbs has overseen a multimillion-dollar program that provides engineering, construction, planning, contracting, real estate, emergency operations, environmental and regulatory services to military, federal, state and local governments across a 226,000-square-mile area of Southern California, Nevada, Arizona and Utah. That also includes leading about 750 military and civilian personnel with a wide array of expertise.
But leading people is nothing new to Gibbs, who has served for more than 24 years as an active-duty Soldier, leading both military and civilian personnel.
“Each person is different, and I have learned that good leaders get to know each person individually and then lead them in a way that brings out the best in that employee,” he said.
Providing priorities and a solid intent on the District’s missions, particularly disaster response operations, helps employees stay focused on what’s really important, he said.
Gibbs will now serve as the chief of staff at the Corps’ headquarters in Washington, D.C. There, he said, he hopes to be an advocate for all of the Corps’ districts nationwide.
“I feel that this District and the great people are responsible for giving me the incredible opportunity of being the Corps’ chief of staff,” he said. “The people have taught me so much, and I will take that with me to make a positive impact on the Corps’ enterprise and help our Districts deliver our programs in civil works, military, Interagency and International Services, real estate and regulatory.”
Gibbs knows how the importance of mentors and having a good support system have played in shaping his career, and he credits his parents with instilling in him respect for others; his wife, Kim, who taught him to endure all challenges, no matter how great, with grace and dignity; and his former chief of staff – Col. Steve Hill – for giving him tough jobs to prepare him for success.
“(Hill) gave me tough jobs that I thought he could have done at the time, but as I look back, the toughest assignments he gave me in that civilian organization at the Corps headquarters prepared me for District command and enabled me to achieve the goal of commanding at the battalion, brigade and District levels,” he said. “I also remember he told me I would be a chief of staff for the Corps one day. He was preparing me for that. I didn't believe him, but that is my next job.”
And, as for additional advice he can share with Barta, Gibbs provided these words of wisdom:
- Be prepared to change leadership style when leading a District of professional civilians. Don't lead them in the same way as Soldiers;
- Engage with people and get around to see them across the District's entire area of operation. Don't sit behind a desk;
- Study hard initially and learn the policies, processes and programs. “You will never be the expert, but you must prepare yourself to make effective decisions as quickly as possible”;
- Always provide a commander's intent and an end state. The civilian workforce appreciates that; and, lastly,
- Lead with honor and humility. “It isn't about you. It is about the District's people and our vital mission.”
As for the future of the LA District, Gibbs said he hopes future leaders continue to change the culture to an organization that is more risk tolerant in streamlining processes and moving projects forward; deliver the Department of Veterans Affairs and Customs and Border Protection programs phenomenally – on time, within budget and to the highest quality; and to remain a "Best Place to Work" in order to retain and recruit talent to the high-cost living area of Southern California.
“I want the District to do what it always does and ‘knock those programs out of the park,’” he said.
O God, thank You for blessing us with parents, siblings and relatives.
Together we learn to Spiritually grow with each other.
Through Holy Virtues of Humility, Consideration, Compassion and Forbearance.
We may be different from each other,
But God’s Love makes us all equally love each other.
We may experience many conflicts with each other,
But God’s Peace makes us all listen peacefully to each other.
We may have different blessings and talents,
But God’s Generosity makes us all share our Love to help others.
That a happy family may not only be merely based on laughter or material blessings -
But a deeper sense of relationship to protect the feelings and the Spirituality of each other.
That a family filled with Holy Virtues of Love and Forgiveness is truly a healthy family.
That a family who put the needs and happiness of each other is truly a joyful family.
Amen.
If there is any advice Col. Kirk Gibbs can give to his successor, it is this: Lead with honor and humility.
As Gibbs, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Los Angeles District’s 61st commander, prepares to relinquish command of the LA District July 19 to Col. Aaron Barta, he offered up some advice and reflected on the past three years as the leader of one of the largest Corps districts in the country.
There are many things Gibbs said he is proud of when it comes to the LA District, but three things stand out: the District being recognized two years in a row as a "Best Place to Work" in the Corps; completing Weed Army Hospital at Fort Irwin, California – the Department of Defense’s only Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design-Platinum, carbon-neutral, net-zero certifiable hospital – on time and within budget; and the one-on-one time he was able to spend with employees in the District.
It is the people Gibbs said he will miss the most – the employees and the District’s close partners across the four-state area.
“I have never focused on relationships like I have here in this District, and I sincerely believe it is part of the District's culture,” he said. “When projects are tough, the close relationships get us through those challenges and ultimately deliver the program.”
During his time with the LA District, Gibbs has overseen a multimillion-dollar program that provides engineering, construction, planning, contracting, real estate, emergency operations, environmental and regulatory services to military, federal, state and local governments across a 226,000-square-mile area of Southern California, Nevada, Arizona and Utah. That also includes leading about 750 military and civilian personnel with a wide array of expertise.
But leading people is nothing new to Gibbs, who has served for more than 24 years as an active-duty Soldier, leading both military and civilian personnel.
“Each person is different, and I have learned that good leaders get to know each person individually and then lead them in a way that brings out the best in that employee,” he said.
Providing priorities and a solid intent on the District’s missions, particularly disaster response operations, helps employees stay focused on what’s really important, he said.
Gibbs will now serve as the chief of staff at the Corps’ headquarters in Washington, D.C. There, he said, he hopes to be an advocate for all of the Corps’ districts nationwide.
“I feel that this District and the great people are responsible for giving me the incredible opportunity of being the Corps’ chief of staff,” he said. “The people have taught me so much, and I will take that with me to make a positive impact on the Corps’ enterprise and help our Districts deliver our programs in civil works, military, Interagency and International Services, real estate and regulatory.”
Gibbs knows how the importance of mentors and having a good support system have played in shaping his career, and he credits his parents with instilling in him respect for others; his wife, Kim, who taught him to endure all challenges, no matter how great, with grace and dignity; and his former chief of staff – Col. Steve Hill – for giving him tough jobs to prepare him for success.
“(Hill) gave me tough jobs that I thought he could have done at the time, but as I look back, the toughest assignments he gave me in that civilian organization at the Corps headquarters prepared me for District command and enabled me to achieve the goal of commanding at the battalion, brigade and District levels,” he said. “I also remember he told me I would be a chief of staff for the Corps one day. He was preparing me for that. I didn't believe him, but that is my next job.”
And, as for additional advice he can share with Barta, Gibbs provided these words of wisdom:
- Be prepared to change leadership style when leading a District of professional civilians. Don't lead them in the same way as Soldiers;
- Engage with people and get around to see them across the District's entire area of operation. Don't sit behind a desk;
- Study hard initially and learn the policies, processes and programs. “You will never be the expert, but you must prepare yourself to make effective decisions as quickly as possible”;
- Always provide a commander's intent and an end state. The civilian workforce appreciates that; and, lastly,
- Lead with honor and humility. “It isn't about you. It is about the District's people and our vital mission.”
As for the future of the LA District, Gibbs said he hopes future leaders continue to change the culture to an organization that is more risk tolerant in streamlining processes and moving projects forward; deliver the Department of Veterans Affairs and Customs and Border Protection programs phenomenally – on time, within budget and to the highest quality; and to remain a "Best Place to Work" in order to retain and recruit talent to the high-cost living area of Southern California.
“I want the District to do what it always does and ‘knock those programs out of the park,’” he said.
Photos by Miller Taylor.
April 2015 CreativeMornings/Raleigh event (global theme: Humility) with guest speakers Mike and Megan Gilger, husband and wife creative team behind Wild Measure studio and The Fresh Exchange blog.
In 2009, Megan and Mike began their lifestyle and design blog, The Fresh Exchange Today, the blog reaches over a half million people everyday, inspiring creators of all kinds to pursue their dreams and live a beautiful and intentional life. The creative couple works together to create original content through photo, video, editorial writing, aesthetic curation, and social media. With a simple, natural, and organic nature to their content, Megan and Mike have had the opportunity to work with brands such as Smartwater, Bing, Gap, Madewell, Bota Box, Levi’s, Feedly, Kinfolk Magazine, Over, Warby Parker, Tuft & Needle, Shinola, and many others.
Special thanks to our host CAM Raleigh and sponsors CompostNow, Counter Culture Coffee, who generously provided us with complimentary coffee, Yellow Dog Bread Company, who provided the tasty breakfast snacks, and Raleigh Raw , who provided the healthy, cold-pressed juice.
O God, please help all of our grandparents to unite as guardians of our family.
That my grandparents from both sides of my parents –
May learn to keep our family Spiritually fruitful in the Holy Virtues of Humility and Love.
As their Words of Wisdom keep us aware of God’s Righteousness to protect the needy.
As their experience in Life helps us children grow to be wiser.
For grandparents guide the marriages of couples in the path to Humility and Forbearance.
That grandparents are protectors of all families to be pure and chaste in God’s Love.
To assure that Family Values will always live forever from generation to generation.
As Holy Virtues of Family Love that we have learned from our parents and grandparents –
Is truly the True inheritance we could ever receive to be passed on to the next generation.
Amen.
One of the most quintessentially Japanese traits is humility. Japanese rate themselves at levels far less positively than North Americans (about 1.6 times less positively), despite objective indicators e.g. longevity and obesity, being more positive. This tendency to respond negatively to linguistic self appraisals is especially concentrated in the Western end of the main Island of Japan, in Yamaguchi, Tottori and Shimane as shown in the above graph.
Yamaguchians rate themselves the fourth least happy prefecture in answer to the question "How happy do you feel yourself to be usually, as a whole where 0 is very unhappy and 20 is extremely happy" ("全体として，あなたは普段どの程度幸福だと感じていますか。0（非常に不幸）～10（非常に幸福）から最も近いものを 1 つ選んでください) despite the fact that measures that take into account objective data such as house size and divorce rate, conversely show that Yamaguchi is 4th from the top most happy prefecture in Japan. This discrepancy displayed by the Japanese as a whole, is strongest in Yamaguchi, which I argue was the origin of the Yamato, the furusato, "hometown", nucleus, or the heartland of Japan.
That Fukushima residents rate themselves as unhappy may have more to do with the disaster that unfortunately occurred there. I am not sure about Saga Prefecture, whose inhabitants rate themselves as third most unhappy. Saga is the home prefecture of my wife.
Other attributes shared by the Japanese and especially by the inhabitants of Yamaguchi include the tendency to recycle garbage, and the tendency to remain slim. Japan is equal 3rd in the world behind Switzerland and Germany by the amount of landfill garbage produced by its inhabitants. Yamaguchi produces the second least amount of garbage per person in Japan behind Mie Prefecture. Japan has the lowest percentage of obesity among OECD countries and Yamaguchi prefecture has the lowest incidence of obesity among males of all the prefectures in Japan. I argue that Japanese slimness is related to the fact that they, their progenitors the Yamato, and Yamaguchians in particular, have a tendency to worship a mirror, and identify with their mirror image.
The Chinese historians who reported on Yamatai nation noted the high standard of morals (Yamaguchi has the 13th lowest level of crime). These historians also mentioned the longevity of the Yamatai people, a trait shared by the Japanese as a whole to this day, but Yamaguchians are no especially long-lived, coming in at 39th for males at 79.0 compared to 80.9 in Nagao, and 36th for women, at 86.1 compared to 87.2 for Nagano. The percentage of persons over 100 years old in Yamaguchi is however, 7th highest in the country. The historians also mentioned that the Yamatai people had a weakness for drink, but Yamaguchians are not special among Japanese in this respect coming in at about the middle of the ranking for consumption of alcohol. The Chinese historians noted that there was little ageism or sexism among the Yamatai nationals. Yamaguchi has the 5th highest percentage of female university students, and like the other top five prefectures, the only prefectures where that ratio is greater than one.
This is the origin of the above graph
浦川邦夫. (2011). 幸福度研究の現状. 日本労働研究雑誌, 612, 4-15.
www.jil.go.jp/institute/zassi/backnumber/2011/07/pdf/004-...
The table below shows prefectural happiness based on objective measures, especially I think in the fourth column, which excludes subjective pronouncements, where Yamaguchi is 4th happiest
asahi-ad.co.jp/images/column/201810/img01_b.pdf
This shows the measures that are used
Dear Friends,
I want to let you know that I have just announced my candidacy for the United States Congress in the seat currently held by my friend, Congressman Robert Wexler, who is accepting a new position at the Center for Middle East Peace.
I make this announcement with great excitement and humility. I am gratified by the incredible encouragement and support that I have already received for this race, and I am extremely excited about the opportunity to be your voice in Congress.
Congressman Wexler served this community tirelessly for nineteen years. I am saddened to see him leave, but I am excited about the opportunity to continue to fight for the issues that he supports and that our community cares so desperately about.
Visit www.TedForCongress.com and Join Today!
This is a time of extraordinary challenges, both at home and abroad. I am running for Congress because I want to work hard every day to help solve the difficult challenges that the citizens of South Florida are currently facing.
I will bring to Congress the same strong work ethic and common sense that I took to Tallahassee. I am proud of the results that I have delivered in the Florida State Senate on education and seniors, health care, and through my initiative to ensure that the retirement funds of Florida’s workers do not support Iran’s illicit quest for nuclear weapons or genocide in Darfur.
Congressman Wexler will be leaving office in January which means his replacement will be filled by a special election that is just months away. This campaign will require an enormous amount of hard work, and if we are going to be successful, we will need to get to work immediately.
I am counting on the support of my friends and supporters who have seen my record of success in Tallahassee and my willingness to work hard to get results. Please join the campaign by going to www.tedforcongress.com, and consider making a financial contribution to my campaign.
Most Congressional campaigns are marathons - this one is a sprint. In order to win, I need lots of volunteers and workers, and I also need to raise over two million dollars in three months. This is no easy task, but with your help, I can do it.
Please Donate Today
You may contribute online today at my website, www.tedforcongress.com, or checks can be made payable to "Deutch for Congress" and sent to 20423 SR7, Suite f-6-383, Boca Raton, FL 33498.
I ask for your support to help me win a race for Congress. Please join my campaign today. I cannot wait to work on your behalf in the United States Congress.
My family and I thank you for your incredible support.
Warmest regards,
Senator Ted Deutch
P.S. Anything you can do to support my efforts is greatly appreciated. Please note that the maximum contribution an individual can make is $4,800 per person, and $9,600 per couple. Corporate contributions are forbidden by federal law.
P.P.S. Please forward this message to your friends and family, and ask them to join our campaign and contribute at www.TedForCongress.com.
Here is some information about me to share with your friends:
Senator Deutch Ideally Situated Senate District Make Him a Formidable Candidate
Senator Deutch’s senate district is ideally situated for a successful congressional campaign for the 19th District seat. Deutch already represents many more voters in the 19th District then any other elected official. In fact, Deutch currently represents almost half of the district’s voters. Wexler also represented this senate district prior to his successful run for Congress. Also like Deutch’s current state senate district, the 19th District is overwhelmingly located in Palm Beach County.
About Senator Ted Deutch
Senator Ted Deutch is an accomplished legislator who has passed legislation on critical issues that have benefited seniors, public education, national security, and victims of the Holocaust. Deutch, 43, was elected to the Florida State Senate in November 2006. His state senate district is largely located in Palm Beach County and includes some portions of north Broward County.
Deutch received national recognition and testified before Congress for his successful legislative efforts ensuring that the retirement funds of Florida workers to not support Iran’s illicit quest for nuclear weapons or genocide in Darfur. In 2009, Senator Deutch passed legislation that will reduce youth smoking and fund up to $1 billion in critical health care programs in Florida, including $50 million per year in dedicated cancer research funding.
In the Senate, Deutch has also passed legislation protecting children, improving health care insurance for seniors, and through his efforts he helped secure a new senior center in Palm Beach County.
Ted’s commitment to public service earned him the prestigious Harry S Truman Scholarship and his civic and philanthropic work earned him the James and Marjorie Baer Leadership Award from the Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County. He also has been honored for his efforts in the State Senate, most recently being named National Distinguished Advocacy Award by the American Cancer society, and receiving the Florida Education Association’s Champion of Public Education Award.
A native of Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, Ted is the son of Jean Deutch and the late Bernard Deutch, who earned a Purple Heart serving his country during World War II. A graduate of the University of Michigan and the University of Michigan Law School, Ted is an attorney with the Florida law firm of Broad and Cassel. He currently lives in Boca Raton, Florida with his wife of 18 years, Jill, his 14 year-old twin daughters, Gabrielle and Serena and his 10 year-old son, Cole.
For more information visit www.tedforcongress.com
If there is any advice Col. Kirk Gibbs can give to his successor, it is this: Lead with honor and humility.
As Gibbs, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Los Angeles District’s 61st commander, prepares to relinquish command of the LA District July 19 to Col. Aaron Barta, he offered up some advice and reflected on the past three years as the leader of one of the largest Corps districts in the country.
There are many things Gibbs said he is proud of when it comes to the LA District, but three things stand out: the District being recognized two years in a row as a "Best Place to Work" in the Corps; completing Weed Army Hospital at Fort Irwin, California – the Department of Defense’s only Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design-Platinum, carbon-neutral, net-zero certifiable hospital – on time and within budget; and the one-on-one time he was able to spend with employees in the District.
It is the people Gibbs said he will miss the most – the employees and the District’s close partners across the four-state area.
“I have never focused on relationships like I have here in this District, and I sincerely believe it is part of the District's culture,” he said. “When projects are tough, the close relationships get us through those challenges and ultimately deliver the program.”
During his time with the LA District, Gibbs has overseen a multimillion-dollar program that provides engineering, construction, planning, contracting, real estate, emergency operations, environmental and regulatory services to military, federal, state and local governments across a 226,000-square-mile area of Southern California, Nevada, Arizona and Utah. That also includes leading about 750 military and civilian personnel with a wide array of expertise.
But leading people is nothing new to Gibbs, who has served for more than 24 years as an active-duty Soldier, leading both military and civilian personnel.
“Each person is different, and I have learned that good leaders get to know each person individually and then lead them in a way that brings out the best in that employee,” he said.
Providing priorities and a solid intent on the District’s missions, particularly disaster response operations, helps employees stay focused on what’s really important, he said.
Gibbs will now serve as the chief of staff at the Corps’ headquarters in Washington, D.C. There, he said, he hopes to be an advocate for all of the Corps’ districts nationwide.
“I feel that this District and the great people are responsible for giving me the incredible opportunity of being the Corps’ chief of staff,” he said. “The people have taught me so much, and I will take that with me to make a positive impact on the Corps’ enterprise and help our Districts deliver our programs in civil works, military, Interagency and International Services, real estate and regulatory.”
Gibbs knows how the importance of mentors and having a good support system have played in shaping his career, and he credits his parents with instilling in him respect for others; his wife, Kim, who taught him to endure all challenges, no matter how great, with grace and dignity; and his former chief of staff – Col. Steve Hill – for giving him tough jobs to prepare him for success.
“(Hill) gave me tough jobs that I thought he could have done at the time, but as I look back, the toughest assignments he gave me in that civilian organization at the Corps headquarters prepared me for District command and enabled me to achieve the goal of commanding at the battalion, brigade and District levels,” he said. “I also remember he told me I would be a chief of staff for the Corps one day. He was preparing me for that. I didn't believe him, but that is my next job.”
And, as for additional advice he can share with Barta, Gibbs provided these words of wisdom:
- Be prepared to change leadership style when leading a District of professional civilians. Don't lead them in the same way as Soldiers;
- Engage with people and get around to see them across the District's entire area of operation. Don't sit behind a desk;
- Study hard initially and learn the policies, processes and programs. “You will never be the expert, but you must prepare yourself to make effective decisions as quickly as possible”;
- Always provide a commander's intent and an end state. The civilian workforce appreciates that; and, lastly,
- Lead with honor and humility. “It isn't about you. It is about the District's people and our vital mission.”
As for the future of the LA District, Gibbs said he hopes future leaders continue to change the culture to an organization that is more risk tolerant in streamlining processes and moving projects forward; deliver the Department of Veterans Affairs and Customs and Border Protection programs phenomenally – on time, within budget and to the highest quality; and to remain a "Best Place to Work" in order to retain and recruit talent to the high-cost living area of Southern California.
“I want the District to do what it always does and ‘knock those programs out of the park,’” he said.
O God, please help all family members to reconcile with one another.
Please teach all of us to say “sorry” for any wrong we have done to others.
Please teach us to accept any apology from others.
That The Holy Spirit of Forgiveness may reign in the family.
For God is pleased with those who are humble to admit their faults.
And God is please with those who even do the effort to reconcile with others.
That our Hearts be freed from uncomfortable feelings and resentments.
And our Spiritual Life be purified with Inner Peace through one another.
May handshakes, smiles, laughter, tears of joys, warm hugs and pats on the back –
Be our little kind expressions of our humility to reconcile with one another.
For God forgives those who forgives others.
May The Holy Spirit of Forgiveness and Peace reign throughout all families!
Amen.
“To become truly great, one has to stand with people, not above them.”
- Marleen Charles de Montesquieu
O God, may all families strive to unite as One Heart by being of service to each other.
For all family members are responsible for each other through care and compassion.
The same way Our Lord Jesus Christ served the Poor, the Needy and the disciples –
So we too as followers of Our Lord that we may learn to meet the needs of our family members.
Our servitude to our family may not only mean helping in household chores,
But also Spiritual guidance in everything we do in the path of Holy Virtues of Love.
That to be of service is also to protect the Spirituality of each other through Humility and Peace.
As all family members be equally of service amongst each other.
Amen.
Dear Friends,
I want to let you know that I have just announced my candidacy for the United States Congress in the seat currently held by my friend, Congressman Robert Wexler, who is accepting a new position at the Center for Middle East Peace.
I make this announcement with great excitement and humility. I am gratified by the incredible encouragement and support that I have already received for this race, and I am extremely excited about the opportunity to be your voice in Congress.
Congressman Wexler served this community tirelessly for nineteen years. I am saddened to see him leave, but I am excited about the opportunity to continue to fight for the issues that he supports and that our community cares so desperately about.
Visit www.TedForCongress.com and Join Today!
This is a time of extraordinary challenges, both at home and abroad. I am running for Congress because I want to work hard every day to help solve the difficult challenges that the citizens of South Florida are currently facing.
I will bring to Congress the same strong work ethic and common sense that I took to Tallahassee. I am proud of the results that I have delivered in the Florida State Senate on education and seniors, health care, and through my initiative to ensure that the retirement funds of Florida’s workers do not support Iran’s illicit quest for nuclear weapons or genocide in Darfur.
Congressman Wexler will be leaving office in January which means his replacement will be filled by a special election that is just months away. This campaign will require an enormous amount of hard work, and if we are going to be successful, we will need to get to work immediately.
I am counting on the support of my friends and supporters who have seen my record of success in Tallahassee and my willingness to work hard to get results. Please join the campaign by going to www.tedforcongress.com, and consider making a financial contribution to my campaign.
Most Congressional campaigns are marathons - this one is a sprint. In order to win, I need lots of volunteers and workers, and I also need to raise over two million dollars in three months. This is no easy task, but with your help, I can do it.
Please Donate Today
You may contribute online today at my website, www.tedforcongress.com, or checks can be made payable to "Deutch for Congress" and sent to 20423 SR7, Suite f-6-383, Boca Raton, FL 33498.
I ask for your support to help me win a race for Congress. Please join my campaign today. I cannot wait to work on your behalf in the United States Congress.
My family and I thank you for your incredible support.
Warmest regards,
Senator Ted Deutch
P.S. Anything you can do to support my efforts is greatly appreciated. Please note that the maximum contribution an individual can make is $4,800 per person, and $9,600 per couple. Corporate contributions are forbidden by federal law.
P.P.S. Please forward this message to your friends and family, and ask them to join our campaign and contribute at www.TedForCongress.com.
Here is some information about me to share with your friends:
Senator Deutch Ideally Situated Senate District Make Him a Formidable Candidate
Senator Deutch’s senate district is ideally situated for a successful congressional campaign for the 19th District seat. Deutch already represents many more voters in the 19th District then any other elected official. In fact, Deutch currently represents almost half of the district’s voters. Wexler also represented this senate district prior to his successful run for Congress. Also like Deutch’s current state senate district, the 19th District is overwhelmingly located in Palm Beach County.
About Senator Ted Deutch
Senator Ted Deutch is an accomplished legislator who has passed legislation on critical issues that have benefited seniors, public education, national security, and victims of the Holocaust. Deutch, 43, was elected to the Florida State Senate in November 2006. His state senate district is largely located in Palm Beach County and includes some portions of north Broward County.
Deutch received national recognition and testified before Congress for his successful legislative efforts ensuring that the retirement funds of Florida workers to not support Iran’s illicit quest for nuclear weapons or genocide in Darfur. In 2009, Senator Deutch passed legislation that will reduce youth smoking and fund up to $1 billion in critical health care programs in Florida, including $50 million per year in dedicated cancer research funding.
In the Senate, Deutch has also passed legislation protecting children, improving health care insurance for seniors, and through his efforts he helped secure a new senior center in Palm Beach County.
Ted’s commitment to public service earned him the prestigious Harry S Truman Scholarship and his civic and philanthropic work earned him the James and Marjorie Baer Leadership Award from the Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County. He also has been honored for his efforts in the State Senate, most recently being named National Distinguished Advocacy Award by the American Cancer society, and receiving the Florida Education Association’s Champion of Public Education Award.
A native of Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, Ted is the son of Jean Deutch and the late Bernard Deutch, who earned a Purple Heart serving his country during World War II. A graduate of the University of Michigan and the University of Michigan Law School, Ted is an attorney with the Florida law firm of Broad and Cassel. He currently lives in Boca Raton, Florida with his wife of 18 years, Jill, his 14 year-old twin daughters, Gabrielle and Serena and his 10 year-old son, Cole.
For more information visit www.tedforcongress.com
I-Spy Bubbles for May's Humility Circle Quilt - I loved getting to dig through my novelty fabrics to pick out the "bubbles"! Can't wait to see this one done!
"Humility" by sculpture Kurt Lehmann, in Hannover, Germany.
This can be found in The Aegidienkirche, the remains of a 14th century church in Hannover, Germany. Built in 1347, it was hit by an allied bomb in 1943 during World War 2. The walls and steeple are all that remain. It was never rebuilt, but left as it was and is now a memorial to victims of war and violence.
In the passageway to the left can be seen the "Peace Bell" bestowed upon Hannover by her sister city Hiroshima in 1985.
O God, please bless all families that we may be in One Holy Spirit.
To be One in spreading Holy Virtues of protecting our Spirituality as a family.
That even if we are amidst this world that yearns for Love,
But with the Truth about Family Love that we have become free as a Dove of Peace.
To return to God the Father, Our Lord Jesus Christ, and Mother Mary in Heaven
And that our Mission is also to set free the hearts of everyone –
Through God’s Divine Truths about Holy Virtues of Family Love
Such as Humility, Forgiveness, Generosity, Justice, Peace, and Joy.
Amen.
Dear Friends,
I want to let you know that I have just announced my candidacy for the United States Congress in the seat currently held by my friend, Congressman Robert Wexler, who is accepting a new position at the Center for Middle East Peace.
I make this announcement with great excitement and humility. I am gratified by the incredible encouragement and support that I have already received for this race, and I am extremely excited about the opportunity to be your voice in Congress.
Congressman Wexler served this community tirelessly for nineteen years. I am saddened to see him leave, but I am excited about the opportunity to continue to fight for the issues that he supports and that our community cares so desperately about.
Visit www.TedforCongress.com and Join Today!
This is a time of extraordinary challenges, both at home and abroad. I am running for Congress because I want to work hard every day to help solve the difficult challenges that the citizens of South Florida are currently facing.
I will bring to Congress the same strong work ethic and common sense that I took to Tallahassee. I am proud of the results that I have delivered in the Florida State Senate on education and seniors, health care, and through my initiative to ensure that the retirement funds of Florida’s workers do not support Iran’s illicit quest for nuclear weapons or genocide in Darfur.
Congressman Wexler will be leaving office in January which means his replacement will be filled by a special election that is just months away. This campaign will require an enormous amount of hard work, and if we are going to be successful, we will need to get to work immediately.
I am counting on the support of my friends and supporters who have seen my record of success in Tallahassee and my willingness to work hard to get results. Please join the campaign by going to www.tedforcongress.com, and consider making a financial contribution to my campaign.
Most Congressional campaigns are marathons - this one is a sprint. In order to win, I need lots of volunteers and workers, and I also need to raise over two million dollars in three months. This is no easy task, but with your help, I can do it.
Please Donate Today
You may contribute online today at my website, www.tedforcongress.com, or checks can be made payable to "Deutch for Congress" and sent to 20423 SR7, Suite f-6-383, Boca Raton, FL 33498.
I ask for your support to help me win a race for Congress. Please join my campaign today. I cannot wait to work on your behalf in the United States Congress.
My family and I thank you for your incredible support.
Warmest regards,
Senator Ted Deutch
P.S. Anything you can do to support my efforts is greatly appreciated. Please note that the maximum contribution an individual can make is $4,800 per person, and $9,600 per couple. Corporate contributions are forbidden by federal law.
P.P.S. Please forward this message to your friends and family, and ask them to join our campaign and contribute at www.TedForCongress.com.
Here is some information about me to share with your friends:
Senator Deutch Ideally Situated Senate District Make Him a Formidable Candidate
Senator Deutch’s senate district is ideally situated for a successful congressional campaign for the 19th District seat. Deutch already represents many more voters in the 19th District then any other elected official. In fact, Deutch currently represents almost half of the district’s voters. Wexler also represented this senate district prior to his successful run for Congress. Also like Deutch’s current state senate district, the 19th District is overwhelmingly located in Palm Beach County.
About Senator Ted Deutch
Senator Ted Deutch is an accomplished legislator who has passed legislation on critical issues that have benefited seniors, public education, national security, and victims of the Holocaust. Deutch, 43, was elected to the Florida State Senate in November 2006. His state senate district is largely located in Palm Beach County and includes some portions of north Broward County.
Deutch received national recognition and testified before Congress for his successful legislative efforts ensuring that the retirement funds of Florida workers to not support Iran’s illicit quest for nuclear weapons or genocide in Darfur. In 2009, Senator Deutch passed legislation that will reduce youth smoking and fund up to $1 billion in critical health care programs in Florida, including $50 million per year in dedicated cancer research funding.
In the Senate, Deutch has also passed legislation protecting children, improving health care insurance for seniors, and through his efforts he helped secure a new senior center in Palm Beach County.
Ted’s commitment to public service earned him the prestigious Harry S Truman Scholarship and his civic and philanthropic work earned him the James and Marjorie Baer Leadership Award from the Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County. He also has been honored for his efforts in the State Senate, most recently being named National Distinguished Advocacy Award by the American Cancer society, and receiving the Florida Education Association’s Champion of Public Education Award.
A native of Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, Ted is the son of Jean Deutch and the late Bernard Deutch, who earned a Purple Heart serving his country during World War II. A graduate of the University of Michigan and the University of Michigan Law School, Ted is an attorney with the Florida law firm of Broad and Cassel. He currently lives in Boca Raton, Florida with his wife of 18 years, Jill, his 14 year-old twin daughters, Gabrielle and Serena and his 10 year-old son, Cole.
For more information visit www.tedforcongress.com
HUMILITY
Do you call me poor, you slugger,
Won't posterity let me hug her,
And won't she hug me back again?
Isn't my pen
The Sceptre of Eternity, to wave
Over Earth's grave?
Don't call me poor—
I don't feel so, I'm sure,
Tho' I can't hug Miss———
Yet, roly-poly Centuries will hug me,
And say her family were unwise,
To look, with scowling eyes,
On the man, the Almighty has knighted,
And his countryman have so slighted.
He thinks of jumping the ocean waters,
For one of John Bull's bunkum daughters.
Poor—that sticks in my poetic crop—
Why, Fooley, I wouldn't swap
My wealth, for Astor's, or the Barings',
Why, the mere pairings
Of my strapping spirit's fruit,
Will fatten the sows of society, thro' all time;
And when I swell my soul to the super-sublime,
Don't I make the Arch-Angels stare,
And the Devil run
From ramskuttleish fun—
I tell you what—I shan't be forgot
By the sister ages, if I am by this,
My memory will have a soaking kiss.
The evening before Earth dies,
The place, where my body lies,
Will be worn by pretty girls' feet;
There they'll sit, and eat
Apples, in the pleasant summer time,
And read my romantic rhyme,
And vow their Grannies were silly, to
Say, Poo! poo!
To me, and my pepper'd poetry, and not make
A whapping wedding cake,
And coax Miss——— to bury her scorn in its centre,
And with me enter
The slippery state of matrimony,
And be Donald's ony dony,
And let me hug her,
Till her heart feels sqush—
Hush, hush—you'll make her blush,
And you've made me blow,
By calling me poor, you slugger,
Psho! Psho!
I'm sure I don't feel so—
So I should think,
From this hurricane of ink.
McDonald Clarke
July 14, 1836
Adventures in Seeing - Humility (1)
These are a few of my favourite kitchen tools... simple, functional, unadorned... producing such humble fare as biscuits, scones, and apple crisp. Baking with these simple hand tools brings me in touch with the process and the feel of what I'm making, a sensation I don't get when using more high-tech gadgets.
If there is any advice Col. Kirk Gibbs can give to his successor, it is this: Lead with honor and humility.
As Gibbs, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Los Angeles District’s 61st commander, prepares to relinquish command of the LA District July 19 to Col. Aaron Barta, he offered up some advice and reflected on the past three years as the leader of one of the largest Corps districts in the country.
There are many things Gibbs said he is proud of when it comes to the LA District, but three things stand out: the District being recognized two years in a row as a "Best Place to Work" in the Corps; completing Weed Army Hospital at Fort Irwin, California – the Department of Defense’s only Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design-Platinum, carbon-neutral, net-zero certifiable hospital – on time and within budget; and the one-on-one time he was able to spend with employees in the District.
It is the people Gibbs said he will miss the most – the employees and the District’s close partners across the four-state area.
“I have never focused on relationships like I have here in this District, and I sincerely believe it is part of the District's culture,” he said. “When projects are tough, the close relationships get us through those challenges and ultimately deliver the program.”
During his time with the LA District, Gibbs has overseen a multimillion-dollar program that provides engineering, construction, planning, contracting, real estate, emergency operations, environmental and regulatory services to military, federal, state and local governments across a 226,000-square-mile area of Southern California, Nevada, Arizona and Utah. That also includes leading about 750 military and civilian personnel with a wide array of expertise.
But leading people is nothing new to Gibbs, who has served for more than 24 years as an active-duty Soldier, leading both military and civilian personnel.
“Each person is different, and I have learned that good leaders get to know each person individually and then lead them in a way that brings out the best in that employee,” he said.
Providing priorities and a solid intent on the District’s missions, particularly disaster response operations, helps employees stay focused on what’s really important, he said.
Gibbs will now serve as the chief of staff at the Corps’ headquarters in Washington, D.C. There, he said, he hopes to be an advocate for all of the Corps’ districts nationwide.
“I feel that this District and the great people are responsible for giving me the incredible opportunity of being the Corps’ chief of staff,” he said. “The people have taught me so much, and I will take that with me to make a positive impact on the Corps’ enterprise and help our Districts deliver our programs in civil works, military, Interagency and International Services, real estate and regulatory.”
Gibbs knows how the importance of mentors and having a good support system have played in shaping his career, and he credits his parents with instilling in him respect for others; his wife, Kim, who taught him to endure all challenges, no matter how great, with grace and dignity; and his former chief of staff – Col. Steve Hill – for giving him tough jobs to prepare him for success.
“(Hill) gave me tough jobs that I thought he could have done at the time, but as I look back, the toughest assignments he gave me in that civilian organization at the Corps headquarters prepared me for District command and enabled me to achieve the goal of commanding at the battalion, brigade and District levels,” he said. “I also remember he told me I would be a chief of staff for the Corps one day. He was preparing me for that. I didn't believe him, but that is my next job.”
And, as for additional advice he can share with Barta, Gibbs provided these words of wisdom:
- Be prepared to change leadership style when leading a District of professional civilians. Don't lead them in the same way as Soldiers;
- Engage with people and get around to see them across the District's entire area of operation. Don't sit behind a desk;
- Study hard initially and learn the policies, processes and programs. “You will never be the expert, but you must prepare yourself to make effective decisions as quickly as possible”;
- Always provide a commander's intent and an end state. The civilian workforce appreciates that; and, lastly,
- Lead with honor and humility. “It isn't about you. It is about the District's people and our vital mission.”
As for the future of the LA District, Gibbs said he hopes future leaders continue to change the culture to an organization that is more risk tolerant in streamlining processes and moving projects forward; deliver the Department of Veterans Affairs and Customs and Border Protection programs phenomenally – on time, within budget and to the highest quality; and to remain a "Best Place to Work" in order to retain and recruit talent to the high-cost living area of Southern California.
“I want the District to do what it always does and ‘knock those programs out of the park,’” he said.
What the world needs is more geniuses with humility. There are so few of us left.
— Oscar Levant
Typeface: Boberia
If there is any advice Col. Kirk Gibbs can give to his successor, it is this: Lead with honor and humility.
As Gibbs, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Los Angeles District’s 61st commander, prepares to relinquish command of the LA District July 19 to Col. Aaron Barta, he offered up some advice and reflected on the past three years as the leader of one of the largest Corps districts in the country.
There are many things Gibbs said he is proud of when it comes to the LA District, but three things stand out: the District being recognized two years in a row as a "Best Place to Work" in the Corps; completing Weed Army Hospital at Fort Irwin, California – the Department of Defense’s only Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design-Platinum, carbon-neutral, net-zero certifiable hospital – on time and within budget; and the one-on-one time he was able to spend with employees in the District.
It is the people Gibbs said he will miss the most – the employees and the District’s close partners across the four-state area.
“I have never focused on relationships like I have here in this District, and I sincerely believe it is part of the District's culture,” he said. “When projects are tough, the close relationships get us through those challenges and ultimately deliver the program.”
During his time with the LA District, Gibbs has overseen a multimillion-dollar program that provides engineering, construction, planning, contracting, real estate, emergency operations, environmental and regulatory services to military, federal, state and local governments across a 226,000-square-mile area of Southern California, Nevada, Arizona and Utah. That also includes leading about 750 military and civilian personnel with a wide array of expertise.
But leading people is nothing new to Gibbs, who has served for more than 24 years as an active-duty Soldier, leading both military and civilian personnel.
“Each person is different, and I have learned that good leaders get to know each person individually and then lead them in a way that brings out the best in that employee,” he said.
Providing priorities and a solid intent on the District’s missions, particularly disaster response operations, helps employees stay focused on what’s really important, he said.
Gibbs will now serve as the chief of staff at the Corps’ headquarters in Washington, D.C. There, he said, he hopes to be an advocate for all of the Corps’ districts nationwide.
“I feel that this District and the great people are responsible for giving me the incredible opportunity of being the Corps’ chief of staff,” he said. “The people have taught me so much, and I will take that with me to make a positive impact on the Corps’ enterprise and help our Districts deliver our programs in civil works, military, Interagency and International Services, real estate and regulatory.”
Gibbs knows how the importance of mentors and having a good support system have played in shaping his career, and he credits his parents with instilling in him respect for others; his wife, Kim, who taught him to endure all challenges, no matter how great, with grace and dignity; and his former chief of staff – Col. Steve Hill – for giving him tough jobs to prepare him for success.
“(Hill) gave me tough jobs that I thought he could have done at the time, but as I look back, the toughest assignments he gave me in that civilian organization at the Corps headquarters prepared me for District command and enabled me to achieve the goal of commanding at the battalion, brigade and District levels,” he said. “I also remember he told me I would be a chief of staff for the Corps one day. He was preparing me for that. I didn't believe him, but that is my next job.”
And, as for additional advice he can share with Barta, Gibbs provided these words of wisdom:
- Be prepared to change leadership style when leading a District of professional civilians. Don't lead them in the same way as Soldiers;
- Engage with people and get around to see them across the District's entire area of operation. Don't sit behind a desk;
- Study hard initially and learn the policies, processes and programs. “You will never be the expert, but you must prepare yourself to make effective decisions as quickly as possible”;
- Always provide a commander's intent and an end state. The civilian workforce appreciates that; and, lastly,
- Lead with honor and humility. “It isn't about you. It is about the District's people and our vital mission.”
As for the future of the LA District, Gibbs said he hopes future leaders continue to change the culture to an organization that is more risk tolerant in streamlining processes and moving projects forward; deliver the Department of Veterans Affairs and Customs and Border Protection programs phenomenally – on time, within budget and to the highest quality; and to remain a "Best Place to Work" in order to retain and recruit talent to the high-cost living area of Southern California.
“I want the District to do what it always does and ‘knock those programs out of the park,’” he said.