Numerous misconceptions surround Freemasonry - frequently negative connotations of an old boy network, or yet greater wicked suggestions. Nonetheless, in reality Freemasonry is a positive movement advancing self-improvement and assisting others. Freemasonry offers a chance for gentlemen to congregate and enjoy genial fellowship. Improving oneself is a central facet of being a freemason. Freemasonry advances aiding others also, and giving to others is a palpable way in which members help individuals.

One of Freemasonry’s rules is not to actively seek out new people to become members. Nevertheless, any individual should feel uninhibited to talk to any current member to acquire further details regarding Freemasonry.

Membership is for males , over 18 years old, and you have to match the requirements of reputation and character, should be of good moral character.

A man who desires to join a lodge must be commended by three Masons of the lodge he wishes to join. He must acknowledge that his character will be enquired about. After commendation by the Masons, he will then be included as a candidate for membership in Freemasonry.

Members often assume accessories like Union Jack badges that subtly advertise themselves to fellow members while passing on the lodge they belong to.

If you’re reading this article, you are likely interested in looking for ways to control your finances. Producing and committing to a monthly budget has always been one of the ideal ways to do this. Having a sound budget is fundamental for managing your finances, one that has allowed me to survive even on limited funds. One of the most crucial things that I do every month is outlining my monthly budget, and it has allowed me to consistently meet all expenses, grow my savings, and control debt.

I map out my budget for the coming month on about the 20th of the current month. That gives me a heads up about what’s down the road. It’s not a good idea to prepare a budget after getting paid because, too often, that flush feeling of receiving a paycheck leads to unessential and spontaneous spending before the paycheck ever reaches the bank.

I start my personal budget by listing all the disbursements that must be paid on time like, loan repayments, utility bills, insurance policy payments and motorcar loans. These are the critical things that I must pay to keep a comfortable roof over my head. I like to pad these requirements to make “money back” after paying the bills and, if costs increase out of the blue, I’m always covered.

Next, my budget is subjected to a list of discretionary things I need to cover but could live without if absolutely necessary. These items include monthly savings deposits, credit card repayments, and donations to charity. Don’t get me wrong, some of these things are also necessary, but in case of emergency they can be omitted. By giving credit card companies the maximum instead of the minimum, I keep my credit score high and my debt low.

My budget will not include the cost of living such as food and entertainment. These items get covered by what’s left over and that’s that. Some months involve lots of beans and rice, slow-cooker meals, free or cheap entertainment, and only one inexpensive piece of clothing . This strategy of handling my monthly budget has worked out very well over the long term as long as I observe it religiously.

We oftentimes get anxious about their monthly budget, not managing your budget can can position you in to further in debt if you are not cautious. The benefits that come from handling your budget the right way not only saves you money but help ease some of your stress over debt. Always keep in mind that a budget is primarily a plan for your monthly spending. A budget, like any plan, requires some level of management gain success. The manner I manage my budget, for example, is by concentrating on maintaining information organised and controlling my spending.

My main focus is on organizing the info in my budget. I keep an eye on recurring expenses like utilities, car and mortgage repayments, insurance, and the like, for example. Consider that without organising my budget, I can very easily lose track of my expenditure. By knowing what expenditures repeat every month, I have an immediate grasp on the minimum amount of money I have to set away each month before I spend on other things I can control a little more such as entertainment, apparel, and vacations.

To make a financial progression, I make sure that I monitor my expenditure closely in my budget. A strong measure of progress is placing money into a savings instrument or paying down debt. However, if I over spend, the opposite is true because instead of saving money I will use debt to help me cover the monthly expenses in my budget. Clearly, giving in to the stresses of budgeting can have expensive consequences for my finances, specially if I am unable to pay down my debt.

There are two gains for watching and organising my budget: First, I save money by fending off unneeded expenditure. Second, my finances are guided at achieving financial goals. Fundamentally, by spending wisely and buying only things that are important, I am actually freeing up money that I can either use for something else or save. The extra money can also be useful in paying off debt or saving it for a holiday. In addition to having extra money, I am able to yield longer term financial goals like saving and investing for retirement or paying off my mortgage or student loans. With my budget being organised and controlled, not only does my financial position become more stable but successfully overseeing my budget reduces the stress that often comes with being in debt.

KISS: Keep it short and simple

A few essential concepts that are substantially explained will come across more clearly than a lot of text fashioned to impress the audience. Your interviewers do not have the time to analyse the information as you deliver it.

The rule of 3

Nearly all individuals cannot recollect more than three things at one time. Many memorable quotes come in three parts: Veni, Vedi, Vici, Blood, Sweat and Tears, Education, Education, Education,
Ready, Steady, Go, etc.

If doable, devise your presentation in 3 bigprincipalcentralfundamental themes (one per slide). On each slide, tryseekendeavorendeavourattempt to focuscentercentre on three3 keycentralprincipalimportantessentialfundamentalbigprimarymain ideas. If you have too many pointsaimsitemsdetails on one page, you may want to breakchunk them down in two2 different more focussedcentredconcentratedcenteredfocused themestopicsideasstemsstreamsconcepts to break upseparatesplit upfragmentbreak downsplit up the messagecontentsubject mattersubstance ininto more digestible chunks

Rule of three3 applied to a presentation on the critical appraisal of your career so far:

THEME 1 - Presentation of Experience
Career progression & Exams taken;
Important skills and expertise acquired;
Involvement in academic activities.

THEME 2 - Demonstration of commitment to speciality and self development
Cours es and conferences attended;
Special interests developed;
Initiative taken in developing services and improving standards.

THEME 3 - Areas where further development is needed
Great emphasis on teaching; want to enhance research portfolio;
Keen to enhance further teaching experience (Med Ed. Degree);
Solid experience of endoscopy; further training required for possible
subspecialisation.

Visual aids

In mostwell-nigh allnearly allvirtually allalmost all interviews, the nature of the visual aids will be imposed. This could include:

No visual aids at all
A4 white paper sheets
Acetates
Electronic (e.g. on USB chip or CD Rom)

Identify the requirements before you start as it may dictate the manner in which you organise your ideas.

EnsureDetermineAscertainCheckVerifySuss Out too that you have sufficientadequatedecentenough back-up. For example:

if they asked for paper presentation slides, bring a copy for eacheveryevery last interviewerinterview panel member (they might say that they will photocopy them for you but the machine might break downfailcrumplesnuff itconkkick the bucket that day!) if they ask for a USB chip, bring two chips (and possibly even a CD version) whatever they ask, always bring a few paper versions in casejust in case everything has gone wrongbaddefectivefaulty, or in casejust in case they deliberatelyintentionallypurposelyby designby choiceon purposedesignedly make your life difficult.

Our group of friends didn’t think the indestructible Chandra Upton, my youthful partner in crime, could need a collection of lace front wigs. Her extravagant hair was synonymous with her indomitable look. Guess what? There’s no doubt “Lady Fabulous” remains recognized because of her impeccable looks. Only a handful of souls even care that she relies on synthetic wigs. They look that good.

When we were young girls in the hill country, we once knocked ‘em dead. Of course, until her hair loss reared its head and she became nearly bald. I mentioned a few invisible lace wigs. Oh well, it didn’t matter much. What a strong soul, she somewhat obnoxiously never let you forget about her innate beauty.

Appearing at her fiance’s golf competition, we taunted the players till her loverboy accidentally hit the orb (or whichever thing that is) into the bleachers. Quick on her feet, she went to grab it when her head scarf jumped from her head, revealing her hair (or lack thereof). No big deal, she tossed the ball to the game official. Attitude, did I mention she’s got it?

Of course, everyone has insecurities. One time she invited me over for a cookie baking marathon, where she quietly confided that she prefers to go bald as a statement. She loved her old hair so much she can’t even consider human hair wigs, despite the fact that she wanted her hair back. At that disclosure, miss invincible changed the subject and requested that I it was silly. So I did.

I thought about it all night. Later on, I talked about getting her a new wig. Eventually the two of us arrived at an agreement: lace front wigs for all! Wigs for the both of us, on me!

We had a great time, stunned by the fashionable styles. She couldn’t believe that human hair wigs are so professionally crafted for a lot of people. These lace front wigs were marvelous. I put together an entirely fresh ensemble to match my wig. We stand together, you know. Not long ago she gave me a photo of us in our wigs and thanked me for the wig, and disclosed that it rekindles new vibrance for many occasions. It’s my pleasure to realize her float about as light as a feather. I’m right there with her.

When it comes to learning the art of resume writing, the most important thing is make sure you can get the attention of recruitment agencies who influence future employers. Your goal is to ensure that your resume stands out from among every other one submitted. The best way to create and figure out how to compose a curriculum vitae is to highlight your previous experiences and correlate that with the current position you are applying for. It is crucial that you use keywords so that it’ll be read all the way through and not just scanned, discarded aside in a stack completely ignored.

Regardless of the role you are going for, it is very important to show that you are beyond qualified for the position than what is shown on your curriculum vitae. Your name and contact info heads your resume and then there is a detailed summary of your work history and listing of important corporations you have worked for previously that will stand out to a potential employer for the job you are going for for. Ensure that you bold and highlight your key skills of your abilities. You should include your educational background and list any honours and accolades that can further enhance your resume.

End your curriculum vitae with list of referees that your prospective employer can reach regarding your past experiences and future abilities. You should take the approach when writing a resume to make sure each part is headed correctly for easy reading. Do not forget to list the years of each previous employments. Use a spell checker to fix any misspelled words or phrases. Make sure your curriculum vitae can be freely saved to several formats. Many employers may request PDF, HTML, or Word formats. Your CV and cover letter should work together in producing a unique profile of your abilities.

Sometimes I don’t like to admit it, but life can be lonesome without a date. I finally bottomed out, this morning I ate a whole bag of Oreos. As a coping mechanism of loneliness, obviously. Yeah, I did it. What does this mean? Honestly, it’s when I initially thought about getting out to date in my new hometown.

I already knew the solution. I can mix up my social life at a matchmaking service like Great Expectations Dallas. That turned out to be my golden ticket. Prolly wouldn’t be an issue, but it is. After practically choking down some of grandma’s potato salad at George’s graduation in Denver last week, Mom wouldn’t get off my back about if I have yet to win my one and only. At first I didn’t know what to say to that. Anyway, I looked up at them and yelled, “what’s your deal, yo?”

No surprise that “The Twerp” (my nephew, age 9) chimed in on the topic of my personal matters. I leveled to all of them: “I’ll be fine, I manage, don’t I?”

Can you believe this? Everyone looked away and giggled. Quite promptly, I emailed my astrologist to put my dating woes behind me. But I couldn’t get it out of my head! I would have learned more by asking my son. Billy, who is now a Budist monk or something recommended that I enroll in Great Expectations. I said, “Yeah, maybe I should.” Should have thought of it myself. I especially enjoy this Dallas dating service.

Early on, matchmaking was a novel thing because I’m a traditionalist of sorts. This was all really foreign to me, and I was speechless at first. My slip up did not put an end to a great time. The evening was bursting with excitement. The greatest most memorable part of it all was the attractive, single women.

Afterwards, I realized why so many people show up to these incredibley satisfying Great Expectations Dallas singles events and mixers, I ran into quite a few winners that obviously feel the same way I do when it comes to dating. Don’t know why I ever let my family give their two cents about me not dating. Surprisingly enough, matchmaking with Great Expectations is a lot of fun and like a dream come true.

Pat

Lonely No More

We are all given the tools, but it is up to us what we decide to build and how magnificent it will be.
Steven Ferrel

Goals are fantastic to have, but many times challenges surface that make it difficult for a goal to mature. Many may never start toward their goal because of doubt in their abilities. Some do not attempt the actions required to make their goals a reality. While others do not allow the right mental conditions to exist for fruition of their dreams.

Those who do not have a strong belief in their abilities, usually have to see it first to believe it can happen. Many things were once invisible and started as a thought, as this article once was. We cannot see our thoughts this does not mean they do not exist. Electricity is invisible - it has no form - but it is very real as anyone who has felt the intense power of electrocution can attest. If you felt extreme pain when someone you deeply care about passed on, you have experienced the power of the invisible. It may manifest itself into tears or expressions of sadness, but it originated from within, that invisible place. What comes from within are the most wonderful and powerful forces of all. Our bodies have certain limitations, but our true inner self, has none. Open your mind to the possibilities of boundless dreams that all begins within you, where our true beauty resides. Until you go beyond the limitations of your form, you will not be able to live your life to its fullest potential and truly experience your dreams.

Remember clarity is power so make it clear what you need to do in order to achieve your goal. Without a map, you may encounter detours that you could have avoided if you had one.

The next and most important step is to take a step, and keep stepping until you achieve your desired result. You must be proactive to achieve your goal. That means do the things you need to do to achieve your goal. Ask yourself what actions do I need to take to make this goal a reality, and then do them. Without action, nothing is accomplished. You can always change your direction when your view becomes heightened, but the engine has to be moving in order to make progress. It is not what you can do, but what you do do that counts.

Finally, nourish your mind with healthy thoughts. Jesus Christ said, “As you think so shall you be.” What we think about expands in our minds. If we do not focus on a goal long enough - it will be difficult for it to mature into form (the visible). When we use a magnifying glass to start a fire, in order for it to work the focus must be on a certain spot for a length of time and the conditions must be right. If it is only held for a short time, or if there is too little sunlight, it will not accomplish what was intended. Focus constantly on thoughts that will empower you while doing the things you need to do to achieve your goals. This will allow for the right conditions and eventually it will become second nature. When this occurs, you will be in the habit of assuming peak performance levels at most times. This will facilitate the process of attaining your goals.

Most of us have heard that the most important thing about goals is having one. Do your true self a favor and let one of your goals be to nourish and allow your true self to come into form living your life without limitations.

To Transforming the Invisible Into The Visible!
Steven

Steven Ferrel C.N. is a clinical nutritionist and creator of the Life Dynamix System - The New Science of Energetic Living! More wellness articles and web streams with Steven are available at http://www.lifedynamix.com

Looking for a summer project? How about working on who you are, and what kind of life you really want to live? Here’s some ideas.

1. Focus on the “who”, not the “what”.

If you find that you’ve been stuck in a goal for a while, try restating it in “who” terms instead of what. For example, instead of saying “I want to lose 10 lbs.”, say “I want to be someone who is at a healthier weight for my age.” Instead of “I want to spend time with my kids”, say “I want to be someone who is a devoted parent.” Then ask yourself what actions would be fit with your desire to “be” instead of “get”.

2. Control-ability.

Get clear on what you can really control and what is out of your control. You can’t control world politics, but you can vote. You can’t control terrorism, but you can be prepared in your own home. You can’t control the construction crews on the freeway, but you can control how much time you allot for a trip. Knowing what you can control and exercising that, and letting go of what you can’t, reduces stress related feelings immensely.

3. Be Generous.

You know you haven’t worn that shirt in 2 years. Someone needs that shirt to keep warm on the streets this winter, don’t let it just sit idle in your closet. Live from abundance, not lack. You’ll have other shirts. Share. Feel good about yourself for helping others less fortunate.

4. Give it a home.

The biggest culprit for chronically lost items in the home or office — keys, remote, phone, scissors, batteries — are that they don’t have a home. Just like teenagers, if you know where they are going to be, you don’t have to waste time looking for them!

5. Establish routines.

While they sound boring and confining, routines are actually freeing. Instead of being worried and anxious on Monday morning wondering if your credit-card bill is late again, you’ll feel calm knowing that you always pay bills on Wed. evening, so you have nothing to be concerned about. Routines take the stress out!

6. Analyze it.

Did you know that a full 80% of your problems come from 20% of your life? It’s true! Determine what that 20% is that’s affecting so much of your life, and start working to make it more efficient and orderly.

7. Consolidate.

Consolidate means to “merge, combine, unite, join”. Look for something in your life that is scattered and consolidate — group of small bills, hand lotions, hobby supplies. I’m using consolidate in this case to mean either to literally combine as all into one container, but also in collecting like items together. Instead of spreading your collectibles all over the house, combine them into one beautiful cabinet for impact. Consolidate toys or reading material/bills/papers by type. You’ll be able to see the duplicates easily and free up some time and space.

8. Do the opposite.

If you find that you’re constantly having to run to the next room to retrieve a pair of (for example) scissors, that’s a clue that you need to *add* a pair where you need them. This is the opposite of consolidate. Just be careful with this one, and make sure that you really use the item enough to make it worthy of taking up the valuable real-estate in your home or office or closet.

9. Predictability

We can’t know the future. No one can. But about everyday things, it’s usually pretty easy to make a fairly accurate prediction of what consequences of your actions will be. A first ‘mistake’ is simply a learning experience, finding out information that you didn’t have originally. A second ‘mistake’ is not exercising your skill of predicting. Practice predicting, and make informed choices to go in a direction you want to.

10. Assign Value.

A big mistake I see in my coaching clients is not assigning a true value to your time, to your energy, to your money, and to the “real estate” (space) of your home or office. Realize that for each thing you say Yes to — from a pair of shoes to watching a movie — you have said No to something else. Always ask yourself - is this *valuable* enough to me to bump something else from my closet, my schedule, my money?

Make Summer 2005 your best yet!

Professional Life Coach Kathy Gates specializes in helping people who are ready to create a simpler, less stressful, more joyful and meaningful lifestyle. Visit http://www.reallifecoach.com for information, products and services, and sign up for a free newsletter.