God Made A Dog
Every dog lover must watch this! If you don’t have a dog, you’ll want one after watching this. If you have a dog, you’ll go hug it.
If We Could See Inside Other People’s Hearts
We all have a story. We can’t always know what others are going through, but if we treat others with compassion there’s a good chance we’ll make whatever it is they’re going through a bit easier. That’s not too much to ask.
Now Is the Perfect Time to Stretch a Little
I actually felt my activity level improve as my body began to reconnect to itself… muscle to muscle, limb to limb.
Coronavirus: Use Common Sense
Sometimes a little common sense goes a long way!
EP30: Paul S. Boynton: Be Amazing In Everything You Do
I recently had the pleasure of participating in a wonderful discussion with Christina Rasmussen, host of the Dear Life podcast. You can hear the entire interview on her website through the link below
It Only Takes a Spark…
I’ve always believed my purposes in life is to be a spark that inspires others…
The Story That Almost Wasn’t
The dreamers and doers of the great Toy Story never gave up, and you shouldn’t give up on your dream either!
I Don’t Often Ask, But I Need Your Help
This is my first book to be published by a major publisher, and my editor, Abigail Gehring, believes this book has the potential to go the distance.
We Need This Reminder: It’s A Wonderful World
Listen to this song! It’s a worthwhile reminder that with so many people hurting and struggling to make sense of the suffering going on around us, this beautiful song by Louis Armstrong continues to be a favorite and is such a reminder.
A Life Lesson: The Fisherman and the Business Man
Sometimes we forget what success really is. Here’s a great lesson!
Students Gather on Lawn of “Waving Grandma” for Warm Send-Off
Her simple act created a bonding bridge between generations that this town will remember forever, as demonstrated by the hundreds of students who brought flowers and signs and stood on her lawn as they collectively blew her a goodbye kiss.
Making the Rest of Your Life the Best of Your Life
I recently saw the new Broadway Musical, Hadestown, during previews, before the critics pronounced it a hit (or not) and I found it to be quite extraordinary. The night we…
Forever Now – A Song for His Son with Cancer
Need a heartstring tug? Watch this!
Happy Holidays 2018
Share a Free Download of Living With a Dream! Happy Holidays!
What is Love… Out of the Mouths of Babes!
We all know that kids say the darndest things. Here’s a compilation of some of the cutest one’s on what love is:
Tonio's Begin with Yes Example
My good friend, Tonio, always wanted to learn how to play the Ukulele, and guess what? He did! He provides a wonderful example of what Begin with Yes is all about.
The Secret World Of Autism
This mom’s heartfelt words provide a window into the world of autism. Her raw honesty reflects the challenges faced by parents navigating the good and bad days of life with autism. I hope it inspires you to have a bit more compassion next time you see a family in your community who’s facing challenges you may not understand.
Don’t Let Anyone Underestimate Your Potential
Many of us see Thomas Edison as the genius who brought us the light bulb. We figure he must have always been the smartest in his class and excelled at everything he did without much effort. This clearly was not the case.
It Doesn’t Take Much To Be Kind
By engaging in random acts of kindness, this man brightens the days of everyone he comes into contact with.
“A Colored Man in Exeter”
His hair was shaggy, brown, but mostly gray. The long coat he wore had been nice, once. But not anymore. It had surrendered to its owner’s reality; unkempt, tired, and raggedy on the edges. He showed up at the back door of “Harold’s Place-Downtown” late one fall morning.
There’s Nothing Like the Contagious Laughter of a Baby!
They say laughter is contagious. A baby’s laughter is the most infectious of all!
Entire Neighborhood Learns Sign Language
Muharrem is a deaf man living in Instabul who received a huge, heartwarming surprise when his whole neighborhood learned sign language to communicate with him.
100 People Of Dance
Hundreds of strangers become connected by a simple dance routine that shows just how similar we all really are.
We’ve All Got A Friend In Claire
Whenever you’re feeling stuck, just remember, you’ve got a friend… and I’m willing to bet you’ve got a friend in quite a few people!
Things a Dog Lover Should Never Forget
My dog Toby brought so much love into our home. He also brought lots of compassion, patience, learning, and many other things that we tend to take for granted. This video reminded me of the wonderful daily interactions Toby and I have together, and how he has taught me so much about being the best person I can be.
Kindness Seeks No Reward, But Sometimes It Happens Anyway!
Most of us never get recognized for acts of kindness, but we feel good within ourselves and that’s what really matters. Kylie also felt good, but the additional recognition she received was well deserved. After watching this story I hope you’re inspired to offer an act of kindness too.
101 Year Old Albina Teaches Us To Wonder!
In this video Albina teaches us the beauty of wonder. As they were driving, her son stopped to turn around and she opened the car door and jumped out. You’ll absolutely love her sense of wonder and appreciation for the things we take for granted!
Little Free Pantry Helps Those In Need
Thank you to Jessica, who started a wonderful movement which had a big ripple effect!
10 Things To Remember When You Feel Stuck
Thanks to TheLawOfAttraction.com for these gentle, necessary reminders!
Positive Thoughts Count. Positive Actions Count More!
We all have good ideas about things we can do to make a difference. Most of us just leave it at the idea stage though. For whatever reason, we never get around to taking action. My goal with sharing this story is to inspire you to do just that – take action on your idea. I know you have one!
The Unknown Can Be Scary… or Exhilarating!
Our experience of things is largely based on our attitude. If our attitude is that experiencing something new would be a scary thing, then we’re likely to develop fear, which will hold us back from ever trying it. If our attitude is that it would be exhilarating, then we’re likely to develop excitement, which will…
If Someone Wants to Walk Out of Your Life, Let Them Go!
Achieving your goals is much easier when you’re surrounded by people who support you. We’ve all had people around us who consume large amounts energy while offering nothing in return. Let this video give you a new perspective on the relationships you choose to cultivate.
We Set Our Dreams Aside For All Sorts Of Reasons!
Saying “YES” to your life doesn’t have to be so hard, but sometimes we make it that way. We set our dreams aside for all sorts of things we call reasons, situations, justifications, rationalizations, or circumstances. But in the end, they’re all really excuses. They exist in our mind and they limit us.
Little Boy Feels The Music
Get out there and make yourself happy. And don’t be afraid to get lost in the music!
Review My Book and Get “Begin Within” for Free!
Here’s a very short video to my most loyal “Begin with Yes” friends, with an offer for a free copy of Begin Within, a guided-imagery meditation to help you stay focused on your Begin with Yes journey! Getting reviews helps my message reach more people, so I’m offering an incentive for you to leave a review.
You’re Stronger Than You Think!
Once I realized that I was stronger than I thought, I was in a position to talk with myself differently. I knew that I could get through dark days and that my capacity to not only get through, but also to move forward, was an ability I could harness to make some of my big dreams begin to unfold.
11 Things To Remember When Going Through Tough Times
Life isn’t meant to be lived in a straight line that you can see ahead for miles and miles. It is meant to have twists and turns and events that you never would have imagined (good and bad!)
A Tribute To Unsung Heroes
This song embodies what an unsung hero is all about. There are lots of them out there. We see them as mothers and fathers, teachers, and many people in our communities who make the world a better place. Share this with one you know!
Who Says You Need Two Legs To Dance?
Evgeny Smirnov is a Russian dancer who lost his leg in an accident but never gave up on his passion. You don’t have to understand Russian to feel the respect and inspiration in this video.
Bette Nash: The 80-Year-Old Flight Attendant!
When Bette was 21-years-old, she realized what she wanted to do for a career, made it happen, and now 59 years later she is still doing what she loves!
“This Too Shall Pass”
When you really can’t see any light at the end of the tunnel, remember that simply taking those steps to get through the darkness is helping you more than you know.
“One Step” – This Song Will Inspire You To Take It!
As you listen to this song I promise you’ll think of “one step” that you can take now, and by the end of the song you’ll be inspired to take it! From Broadway’s “Starting Here and Staring Now”, it captures the Begin with Yes spirit perfectly!
The Things That Dads Can’t Do
Beyond the cute message of this video is the message that dads sacrifice a lot for their children. So even if they never seem to be able to beat you in a race or find you during a game of hide-and-seek, remember that they sacrifice so much for your best interests.
It’s All About Perspective!
A kayaking camp teaches youth that although the waters may be rough and you may get bumped around and even turned upside down, there’s always a way to get yourself upright again.
A Journey to Motherhood – Introducing Noah Skye!
It’s only been a couple of weeks since Hannah and Tom welcomed their son, Noah Skye, into their lives and they decided to share their experience in this amazing video that captures the loving journey to motherhood. The breadth of emotion and display of love they’ve shared is one of the most beautiful things I’ve ever seen.
Be A Rainbow In Someone Else’s Cloud
Maya Angelou’s wisdom was always so inspiring and lives on in a timeless way. Her thoughts about rainbows and clouds are no different.
The Hospital Bed Story Of Hope
Remember how much a simple action can impact others, good or bad, and make a conscious effort to promote good, positive actions in your everyday life.
Finding The Courage To Take The First Step
Watch this inspirational video. Each person has their own story, but collectively their stories transcend all obstacles. If you feel stuck in the pursuit of your dream, chances are your own struggles will seem a bit smaller and less insurmountable.
Mama, This One’s For You
This musical tribute from Beth Hart to her mother is one that we can all relate to. While we may not all have the talent to write a song for our mothers, we can all certainly share a touching tribute like this one!
Piano Playing Power Couple
Fran and Marlow Cowan decided to give the patients at the Mayo Clinic an impromptu piano recital, and thankfully someone caught some of it on camera.
Sun Is Gonna Shine
Even in your darkest moments, always remember that the “sun is gonna shine” again.
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10 Rules To Live By
Thank you to The Power of Positivity for this short yet incredibly inspring message about some very basic rules we should all live by!
Sometimes Laughter Is The Best Medicine
This man was truly stuck in every sense of the word, but he still managed to be a good sport about it!
Life Lessons From Rocky
Many of us have at least seen the original Rocky movie and been inspired by the rising underdog story. Rocky, no matter how many times he was beaten down, always got back up because he believed he still had more steps to take.
High Five Movement To Brighten Your Day
The Up High Movement is all about spreading happiness through high fives. That sounds easy enough. Let’s say YES to high fives and start spreading some happiness!
This Girl Is Amazing – You Can Be Amazing Too!
We all have talents, but they develop at different stages in life for each of us. Some people discover their talent very early, like this 4 year old girl, Brielle. She’s amazing – not only for her incredible knowledge at such a young age – but also for her natural ability in conveying that knowledge in an engaging way. She’s a natural in front of the camera!
Rhett Gets a Pet! I’m Wondering If I Should Do This
It’s been said that it’s better to have at least two dogs so they have a friend to play with while you’re at work. I think there’s merit to that thinking and this might just inspire me to get a pet for Toby! I’d appreciate hearing the thoughts from all the pet owners out there.
Stop What You’re Doing & Watch This – Then Decide
We all have a dream, a passion, or a purpose. This video will make you think seriously about yours and the direction your life is heading. You’ll definitely feel like saying “I quit” to your current job, but I’d suggest saying it in the mirror for a while, and maybe…
Soldiers Surprising Their Moms – Priceless Reactions!
Get a tissue… you’ll need it! Being a military mom is no easy task. You’re proud one minute, afraid the next, with lots of other feelings in between… including being wonderfully surprised! Each of these moments of reuniting is special.
Find Success In Helping Others Succeed
Helping others not only brings happiness and success to others, but to you as well. There are few things more rewarding than watching someone succeed and knowing that your support helped them get there.
Grab A Can Of Spray Paint And Join Graffiti Grandma!
If you’ve ever thought you’re too old to try something new, take a look at this and think again. Graffiti, or street art, has typically been an art form for those of a younger generation… until now.
You Can Become Anything You Want, So What Is Stopping You?
When we’re young, there are so many things we want to be when we grow up. This advertisement shows how strong our imaginations are as children. Now let’s keep those imaginations strong into adulthood, and turn those dreams into realities!
A Synchronized Stairway To Heaven
This is an amazing video of a Spanish synchronized swimming team performing the most unique version of Led Zeppelin’s “Stairway to Heaven” that I’ve ever seen.
Random Acts Of Kindness Bred From ALS
Here is another inspiring example of how when you change someone else’s life, you change your own. Chris Rosati suffers from ALS and is inspiring children to become more caring, giving members of society by being a true inspiration himself!
Don’t Let Anything Stand In Your Way Of Adventure
Danny Kean is blind and has been for all of his life, but that has never stopped him from living his life exactly the way he wants to.
Is That The Anesthesia Talking, Or Nicki Minaj?!
This is priceless! I feel a bit sorry for her, but I have to agree with her about Ellen! Anesthesia can cause us to be quite groggy, gloomy and in this young woman’s case, full of spitfire!
An Incredible Cover Of A Beautiful Song
This young girl is defying more than just gravity with her amazing voice. Have a listen for yourself, and get inspired (and goosebumps)!
Baby Tries To Out-Do Daddy
This is a simple example of how children emulate their parent’s behavior. Imagine what kind of world we’d have if more people set loving, caring examples like this!
Baby Sees His Mom For The First Time
We sometimes take things for granted, but times like this remind us to step back and be grateful for things that come so naturally to most of us, but are so difficult for others. Enjoy the view, Leo!
Pay Attention Before The Parade Passes By
My wish for you is that you begin to pay attention, not only to your own dreams and hearts desires, but that when you hear a parade coming, this time you say YES before the parade passes you by.
Prancercise: A Fitness Workout
Exercise is good for us, and so is laughter. This workout routine brings fitness and laughter together into one. It’s called Prancercise, and whether for exercise or just a good laugh, it’s going viral.
A Man’s Reaction To News Of Becoming A Grandfather
This man’s animated reaction to the news that he is going to be a grandfather is a mix of humbling and hilarious that is sure to make you smile and think about how creative you can be the next time you have exciting news to share!
What Makes YOU Grateful?
Gratitude makes a world of difference. Be sure to show yours, for things big and small, every day. The video will inspire you to do so!
Navy Veteran Turned Tap Dancer
This is such a powerful video proving that you are never too old to check things off your bucket list.
Challenged America: An Organization For Children In Need
The My Gym Challenged America Foundation promotes healthy lives for children with physical and developmental disabilities, and is spearheaded by a man who defied the odds himself. To succeed when the odds are against you is the best success of all!
The World’s Oldest Flash Mob!
Seniors between the ages of 65 and 96 choreographed and executed a wonderfully fun flash mob, and their ages made that particular flash mob the oldest one on record! Enjoy this fun video and remember to get up and dance!
Simple Act Of Kindness Helps Little Girl Fight Cancer
Sometimes we get caught up in day-to-day things and don’t pay attention to the world around us. These two tough-guy steel workers were doing just that, until they saw the children waving to them from windows at the hospital next door.
Live Like You Were Dying – The Bucket List
Today, I encourage you to do just one thing that gets you closer to a goal. Take one step. Tell others what that step is. Post it on Facebook. Ask for encouragement. You’ll go to bed tonight feeling better about yourself. Momentum starts now!
Are Your Regrets Bigger Than Your Dreams?
Everyone has regrets, some bigger than others. And that’s okay, but you can change that! Don’t be afraid of failure. Stop waiting for the perfect time, because the time is now. Take the next step that will get you closer to what you really want.
A Canceled Wedding Turned Into A Feast For The Homeless
By offering your support to others during a difficult time in your life, you realize how much you do still have to offer, even if you feel empty.
“Hotel California” Performed On One Guitar
Gabriella didn’t just pick up the guitar one day and play this. It took lots of baby steps, many mistakes and a ton of persistence.
A Father-Daughter Dance Like No Other
Think about something you’ve always wanted to do, and ask yourself why you haven’t done it yet. Is it because you’ve never had enough time, enough money, enough courage, enough skill? Enough with “enough”!
The Magic of Disney: Shadow Edition
Wouldn’t it be a nice little surprise to be walking around, minding your own business, and have your shadow suddenly turn into a princess, or a warrior?
More Alike Than Different – World Down Syndrome Day
These children set a wonderful example for us all. It’s one that goes well beyond Down syndrome. As you listen to their dreams you’ll realize just how much we’re all the same. If only for today, make a conscious effort to find someone who is different than you in some way and reach out to start a conversation.
In Case You Thought Pop Music & Dancing Is Just For Girls…
This video is going viral and it is no question as to why! Watch this doting dad dance and lip sync with his daughters to a Katy Perry song. It’ll be impossible for you not to smile – they are all having so much fun!
Mental Illness Battled with PeaceLove
PeaceLove is an art organization whose approach is to “help people create peace of mind through a symbol of hope and expressive arts. Using creative expression can inspire, heal, and communicate emotions that are often difficult to convey in words.” How cool, and true, is that?!
Do You Have Two Wolves Fighting In Your Heart?
If you are not familiar with mindfulness, this short video will introduce and explain it to you. Even if you already practice mindfulness, this video will still be a great refresher on what it truly means to be mindful.
A Little Girl And Her Duck
I know that this isn’t exactly about chasing a dream, but it’s certainly a lesson in believing in what you know to be true even when others may snicker at you. Watch Kylie and Snowflake, then say YES to your dream and keep on believing!
A Positive Attitude Is Everything!
A lot of the everyday nuances we deal with are just a part of life. When we stop taking these things so personally and just continue on with our day, an amazing thing happens. We become happier and more grateful for the good things that life brings us every single day.
Life = Risk… And It’s So Worth It
This video has a great message! Some of the most influential people in history were told numerous times that they’d fail and should stop trying. Then they went on to do something great. You can too! “If you’ve never failed, you’ve never lived.”
Find Your Grit – We All Have It In Us
Listen to this 11-year-old boy describe what “grit” is. Teachers make children learn in many ways. One of them is to make them consider their own thoughts about important topics such as, “What qualities does it take to succeed in life?” When you find your grit, each step get a bit easier.
Teacher Spends Her Life Savings On A Bus – At 77!
Would you put it all on the line for a dream… at the age of 77!? This is an amazing story of of a woman, who as a girl, picked beans in the segregated fields of the south. She went on to go to college, become a teacher, and teach for 50 years. And then at the age of 77, she….
A Wonderful Act Of Kindness By The NYC Ballet
This story will make you cry tears of joy! – Natalia Armoza’s daughter, Pearl, has Cerebral Palsy. One day, while wishing that her daughter could take part in activities like most other children, she decided to write a letter to the New York City Ballet. Her letter said, “It would mean so much to my daughter, and children like her, to be able to take part in a New York City Ballet workshop, and for one day, feel like they too could become ballerinas.”
We Get By With A Little Help From Our (New) Friends
Joey Resto noticed a man shivering, only in a pair of pants and shoes, while taking the NYC subway home one night this winter. Joey felt compelled to help, so he gave the man his shirt off his back, and had to even help him put it on. Then he went back and gave him his winter hat to help keep him warm. The man was surprised and appreciative, and Joey expected nothing in return.
Pursue Your Passion
Don’t be afraid to do things that are of interest to you and that make you happy. Take a page out of this little boy’s book and dance (or whatever it is your are passionate about) like no one’s watching!
Would You Trade Ice Cream For A Dream?
What a clever way to start an important conversation! Sometimes our biggest dreams can be scary to act on, or even talk about. The fear of failure or rejection is very real. But can you imagine where we’d be if those fears weren’t holding us back?
Remember A Time When You Had No Fear?
Watch this amazing little girl sing “Part of Your World” from Little Mermaid and let it bring you back to that time when you had no fear. Letting go of fear is hard, but when you do you can start taking bigger steps toward your dream, and I hope this inspires you to try.
It’s Never Too Late To Start Again
The main thing stopping us from starting over is believing we can, so believe you have a clean state and you will. But a clean slate is only good if you use it. When people ask me where to begin, I say the easiest step is a good place to start. Here’s your clean slate and chalk, so start re-writing your story!
When There’s a Will, There’s a Way!
When working toward your goal you have to be able to incorporate all the other things that life brings along the way. These moms get their exercise and their babies become part of the routine. “When there’s a will, there’s a way”!