It's commonly seen as an anti-christ symbol these days but that is no where near the true meaning. It 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.

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.

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.

The first of my "Chalk It Up To Experience" cards. Here, C.S.Lewis adds a piercing insight on "Humility" - which is "not thinking less of yourself but thinking of yourself less."

Cabinet card from the US

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

MLS Cup MVP and author of THE SAVE Stefan Frei is having none of it, insisting that the whole team are MVPs. How can you not love that attitude in a player who could easily let it all go to his head?

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

Sculptor: Jacopo Della Quercia. Circa 1400. Marble.

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!

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

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

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.

All Saints, Bingley, West Yorkshire.

East Window, 1890 - detail.

Charity - Purity - Love - Truth - Humility.

Designed by Henry Holiday (1839-1927).

Made by James Powell & Sons.

Henry Holiday also worked as a painter, illustrator and sculptor, and his broad range of interests led to involvement in the campaign for Irish Home Rule, women's suffrage and dress reform.

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

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

African Burial Ground National Monument :: NYC

Dwennimmen, literally meaning "ram's horns," symbolizes that even the strong have to also be humble. The symbol is a bird's eye view of two rams butting heads, and the rams' horns symbolizes strength and humility through the characteristics of a ram. A ram will courageously fight against its foes when prompted, but will submit to slaughter when necessary, indicating that even the strong have to be humble.

- National Parks Service

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.

LARGE view and tags read; enjoy a great weekend _____

foto cropped for clarity and emphasis_______

Pope: Augustine Is Model of Humility and Says His Conversion Lasted Until He Died

VATICAN CITY, FEB. 26, 2008 (Zenit.org).- In his final reflection on St. Augustine, Benedict XVI spoke of the saint's interior conversion, calling it "one of the greatest" in Christian history.

The Pope affirmed this today during the general audience given in Paul VI Hall. He recalled how his trip last year to pay homage to the mortal remains of Augustine was meant to "demonstrate the admiration and reverence of the entire Catholic Church toward St. Augustine, and my own personal devotion and recognition of a figure with whom I feel I have close ties to due to the part he has played in my theological life, in my life as a priest and a pastor."

Recalling Augustine's own retelling of his conversion in the "Confessions," the Holy Father said that the process is best "described as a journey that remains a true example for each one of us." It was a journey that "continued with humility until the end of his life."

"We can state that all the stages of his life -- and we can easily distinguish three phases -- together make up a single long conversion," the Pontiff explained.

Truth seeking

Benedict XVI characterized the first phase as a "gradual approach to Christianity," since Augustine was a "passionate seeker of the truth."

He explained: "Philosophy, and especially Platonic philosophy, led him closer to Christ by revealing to him the existence of the Logos, or creative reason. The books of the philosophers showed him the existence of 'reason' from which the whole world is derived, but did not tell him how to reach this Logos, which seemed so inaccessible.

"It was only through reading the letters of St. Paul, in the faith of the Catholic Church, that he came to a fuller understanding. […] His eyes fell on the passage of the Letter to the Romans, in which the apostle urges the abandonment of the pleasures of the flesh in favor of Christ. He understood that those words were specifically meant for him. They came from God, through the Apostle, and showed him what he had to do in that moment."

Augustine thus began to seek God, the Pope explained, "the great and inaccessible."

"His faith in Christ made him understand that God, seemingly so distant, was in truth not distant at all. In fact he has come near us, becoming one of us," the Holy Father said. "In this sense his faith in Christ allowed Augustine to accomplish his long search for truth. Only a God who made himself 'touchable,' one of us, was a God to whom one could pray, for whom and with whom one could live."

Mercy

Benedict XVI said a last step, or "third conversion" in the journey, "led [Augustine] to ask God for forgiveness every day of his life."

The Pope explained: "At first he thought that once christened, in a life in communion with Christ, in the sacraments, and in the celebration of the Eucharist, he would attain a life as proposed in the Sermon on the Mount, which is one of perfection given through baptism and confirmed in the Eucharist.

"In the latter period of his life he understood that what he had said in his first homilies on the Sermon on the Mount -- that we as Christians permanently live this ideal life -- was a mistake. Only Christ himself realizes truly and completely the Sermon on the Mount. We always need to be cleansed by Christ, who washes our feet, and be renewed by him.

"We need a permanent conversion. Up to the end we need to demonstrate a humility that acknowledges that we are sinners on a journey, until the Lord gives us his hand and leads us to eternal life. It is with this attitude of humility that Augustine lived out his final days until his death."

A model

The Holy Father said that Augustine, once "converted to Christ, who is truth and love," became a model for every human being, "for all of us in search of God."

"Today, as then," the Pontiff said, "mankind needs to know and to live this fundamental reality: God is love and meeting him is the only answer to the fears of the human heart.

"In a beautiful text St. Augustine defines prayer as an expression of desire, and affirms that God answers by moving our hearts closer to him. For our part we should purify our desires and our hopes in order to receive God's gentleness."

"In fact," the Holy Father concluded, "this alone -- opening ourselves up to others -- can save us."

___________________________

EXPLORE # 384 on Saturday, March 15, 2008; & # 438 on 03-16-2008

"Vanity is the mark of Humility rather than of pride."

Jonathan Swift

Only if we face these open wounds in ourselves can we understand them in other people. - James Baldwin

More James Baldwin Quotes and Sayings

Picture Quotes on Humility

12 Beautiful destinations in Thailand to explore, besides Bangkok, Phuket and Chiang Mai

Original photo credit: Alexas_Fotos

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 teach all brothers to love one another.

That they may have utmost respect for each other.

Never to compete with each other, but to support one another –

In the path of Holy Virtues of Humility, Love and Compassion.

May they learn the essence of Mother’s Love to be worthy Men of God.

Like their mother who cared for them as an infant in her womb for Free,

That brothers become Men by helping each other without any material thing in return.

Like a mother who bore the sacrifice to bring life into Humanity,

That brothers become Men by offering their Life and blessings to care for one another.

Like a mother who showed affection to a poor and helpless infant,

That brothers become Men by being meek, gentle and affectionate to one another.

For what truly makes brothers worthy as honorable Men,

Is the humility to encourage one another to be of Holy Virtues of Humility and Love.

To have the Joy to be happy for the talents and blessings of others.

These that brothers may unite to be peaceful protectors of Humanity –

And defenders of God’s Righteousness on Earth.

For the greatest of all Men are those who are able to overcome their pride and selfishness.

These that Men truly show that they are strong and wise followers of God.

Amen.

The Madonna of Humility

Paolo di Stefano (1397-1478)

Florence and Pisa

A tabernacle made for a Flagellant company.

On the pilasters:

St Mary Magdalen

St Francis of Assisi

St Jerome

St Bernard of Clairvaux

Below: The brothers of the Confraternity kneel round a bier whilst the Office of the Dead is read.

The Fitzwilliam Museum

Cambridge

September 11, 2014 - Boston College

"A Pope for the 21st century",

a discussion about Pope Francis who has taken the world by storm with his humility, tolerance, and outreach to the poor. With Catholics and non-Catholics alike buzzing about Pope Francis, Crux has assembled a panel of distinguished clergy, academics, and writers to examine the impact this pope has had on Catholicism and the world at large.

The panel, moderated by Crux spirituality columnist Margery Eagan, will feature:

* Opening remarks by Cardinal Sean O’Malley of the Archdiocese of Boston

* Vatican analyst John L. Allen Jr., associate editor of Crux and The Boston Globe

* Harvard law professor Mary Ann Glendon, president of the Vatican’s Pontifical Academy for Social Sciences

* Boston College theologian Hosffman Ospino, assistant professor of Hispanic ministry and religious education

* Robert Christian, editor and blogger for "Millennial | Young Catholics, An Ancient Faith, A New Century"

Crux, www.cruxnow.com is a new website published by the Boston Globe which strives to cover the worldwide institution of the Roman Catholic Church, from the papacy to the hierarchy to local dioceses. "We’ll explore the theology, doctrine, liturgy, practices, and traditions of Catholicism in the context of the life of modern-day Catholics, giving full voice to disagreements and challenges facing the Church and Catholics. We will examine Catholicism in the context of other religious traditions.

We also will explore the personal faith and spirituality of Catholics and what it means to live a Catholic life."

Photos by George Martell - Archdiocese of Boston - BCDS

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

Vain glorious and humble

Victoria and Albert museum, South Kensington, London

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

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

Nothing says “I love you” like red roses. Red symbolizes love, beauty, courage, respect, romantic love, and even congratulations. While many send red roses on Valentine's Day, surprise your Valentine this year with white roses that symbolize true love, purity, innocence, reverence, humility, youthfulness, and charm.

I love Japanese service, but it is very egalitarian or even the power relationship is at times reversed, such that the service personel appear superior to the customers that they are serving, while maintaining the highest verbal standards of humility of course.

Once again, as one Japanese hospitality researcher commented, the attitude to deities parallels the attitude towards hots. Japanese deities or kami are perhaps translated as spirits and are seen in a much more egalitarian way than the Judeo Christian God, as are the ancestors who are "worshipped" which for similar reasons is better translated, in my opinion, as "respected".

The above uses the kimono clad lady in the image below released under the same licence.

Liam being fussed over by a kimono-clad waitress - Asakusa Mugitoro by Alpha

Lighting is a little off

The Seven Contrary Virtues:

humility, kindness, abstinence, chastity, patience, liberality, diligence

The Contrary Virtues were derived from the Psychomachia ("Battle for the Soul"), an epic poem written by Prudentius (c. 410). Practicing these virtues is alledged to protect one against temptation toward the Seven Deadly Sins: humility against pride, kindness against envy, abstinence against gluttony, chastity against lust, patience against anger, liberality against greed, and diligence against sloth.

San Sebastian Cathedral

Lipa City, Batangas

Good Friday