Category Archives: True Identity

The greater the struggle, the more glorious the triumph!

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I am a firm believer in creating positive change. This short film is very powerful.

Exerpts from the short film The Butterfly Circus.

Limbless Man: “Stop it! Why would you say that?”
Showman: “Because you believe it, but if you could only see the beauty that can come from ashes.”

The limbless man is shown some traumatic conditions from which the now happy, talented performers in the Butterfly circus had come.

Limbless Man: But they’re different from me! ”

Showman : “Yes.YOU do have an ADVANTAGE. The greater the struggle, the more glorious the triumph.”

I encourage you to take the time to view this short film.
http://thebutterflycircus.com/short-film/

Story
At the height of the Great Depression, the showman (Eduardo Verastegui) of a renowned circus leads his troupe through the devastated American landscape, lifting the spirits of audiences along the way. During their travels they discover Will (Nick Vujicic), a man without limbs at a carnival sideshow, but after an intriguing encounter with the showman he becomes driven to hope against everything he has ever believed.  (words from www.thebutterflycircus.com)

INVITATION FROM CAROLYN:  If you have a desire to positively impact the lives of others, consider JOINING THE QUEST and becoming a Generational ChangeMaker at my Family Tree Quest site.  We are a worldwide group of people who use time-tested, principle centered solutions to strengthen ourselves and our family in THIS generation.  We recognize that our decisions in the present influence future generations.  We are willing to help each other, heal relationships and grow–in spite of challenges.

About Carolyn Calton

9 -11; Because I Have Been Given Much

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This was my mom’s favorite hymn.  I think it’s fitting to post on 9 -11.  For those of us who live on after the tragic attacks on our country, we have the responsibility and blessing to live in a way that blesses others.  I’ve learned that by doing so, we grow and develop loving connections that are worth any sacrifice on our part.  I’m grateful for the model of service my mother set for me.  I’m grateful to the friends that brought this video to the attention of my husband and me.

(The group is Reprise)

About Carolyn Calton

Today’s Ugly Duckling

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When I was young, a well-meaning church leader told the young man I was dating that I was kind of like “The Ugly Duckling” of storybook fame.  I’m certain he was trying to pay me a compliment.  He remarked that I had turned into a very beautiful young woman.  I knew that is what he meant.  I hope you can understand, however, that his comment cut me straight to the heart.

Growing up was a difficult thing for me to figure out.  I didn’t feel like I “fit in”, and every girl desires to be beautiful–which I certainly did not feel.  I was awkward, gangly, and my friend’s mother even said I looked like a “toothpick” in a dress I thought was the prettiest thing I’d ever worn!  I could go on and on, but without saying more, I will simply state that “The Ugly Duckling” story has drawn my attention ever since those days.

Over the years, I have moved beyond that insecure, self-demeaning place. I’ve learned that we all gather false beliefs and self-doubts about who we REALLY are and what we came to earth to do and to give.  I have come to understand more completely who I am and recognize many of the gifts I have that contribute positively to the lives of others. Yet today, I spotted this video, by Dieter Uchdorf about Our True Identity.  He uses the story of the Ugly Duckling as an illustration.  I thought I’d post it, just in case there are those who find it’s message and meaning to be perfect timing for them.  I believe it to be a good reminder for all of us.

Enjoy!

About Carolyn Calton