Thoughts for a better life…

When Bob Dylan’s evocative tones first graced the airwaves with “Blowin’ in the Wind,” it struck a chord in the hearts of millions. It was an era where collective battles raged for universal principles: peace, freedom, and civility. Dylan’s anthem became the soundtrack of a generation bound together in a quest for shared values that transcended borders and races.

Fast forward to today, and the wind seems to have shifted its direction. The grand narrative of unity and commonality that characterized the ’60s has fragmented into a mosaic of individual voices. The modern progressive movement, once heralded as the torchbearer of universal values, is increasingly seen by many as veering towards personal agendas. Foundational principles like the rule of law, which once held a sacrosanct place in societal discourse, are sometimes overshadowed by the fervor of personal convictions.

The chorus of “Blowin’ in the Wind” asked poignant questions about man’s quest for a better world. Today, however, the question might be: “How many individual voices can sing before we lose the melody of unity?” The challenge facing our generation is navigating the fine balance between championing individual rights and preserving the collective values that hold society together.

While Dylan’s era was about converging on shared dreams, today’s world seems to be more about diverging paths. But let us not forget: those who carried the banner then are hailed as heroes today. The call now is for new heroes to rise. Will you become tomorrow’s hero? It may not require moving mountains or forging new paths, but simply having the courage to stand against the wind.

Jaren

Four decades ago, I stepped into the vast world of real estate, treading on the path my father, Jerry Davis, had carved. A man of honor, respect, and immense goodwill, my father had left an indelible mark not just as a professional but as a beacon of hope, giving back selflessly to his community and industry. In my early days, the mere mention of my name was invariably followed by, “Ah, Jerry Davis’ son!” It was a badge I wore with pride.

However, as time unfolded, the roles subtly reversed. One day, as we strolled together, an acquaintance greeted us, nodding at my father, “Oh, you’re Jaren’s father.” My young heart wrestled with mixed emotions. Had I overshadowed the giant whose shoulders I had stood upon? He always reassured me it was a proud moment, yet deep down, I pondered if he felt a tinge of melancholy.

Years flew by, and the cycle repeated itself, this time with my radiant daughter, Lindie, by my side. At first, she was known as “Jaren’s daughter.” But recently, in a twist of fate echoing my past, I found myself being introduced as “Lindie’s father.” The pride I felt was inexplicable. Lindie had emerged from my shadow, illuminating the world with her distinct light, using her unique gifts to make the world a better place.

That night, under the blanket of stars, I whispered to the winds, hoping they’d carry my words to my father. “Dad, I finally understand. The pride of seeing your child rise and carve their destiny, it’s unparalleled.”

To Lindie, you are the song my heart sings. You are the story that will inspire generations. And if the world were a stage, I’d proclaim with boundless joy, “Yes, I am Lindie’s father!”

Jaren

This morning at the gym, “We’re All Going Home” by the Wanderer unexpectedly played, touching a deep chord in my heart. Many of you know that my book revolves around the concept of finding our way back home. These lyrics resonated so deeply, reaffirming my beliefs. It’s profound when you encounter a song that echoes the same sentiments you’ve written about. 

“I will seek and I will find…

Listen to the song that’s playing on your own soul’s radio.”

Whether through reading, listening to music, or other means of inspiration, our inner compass always points the way home. All we need to do is heed its call, trust the journey, and follow our hearts. In doing so, we discover peace and joy, even amidst the challenges.

Jaren

Witnessing a large man being mocked after a distressing incident at a game was heartbreaking. Watching him tumble down stairs, lost and exposed, only to be made a subject of ridicule online was deeply unsettling. The very act of posting such a video to mock him reflects the darker sides of our society. My simple response was, “This makes me sad.” Out of the numerous comments, most of which were hurtful, mine became the most liked. It shows that many of us feel the same way. Our world can be challenging enough without the added cruelty from others. It’s unfathomable how anyone can find humor in another’s pain. Let’s be a beacon of kindness and understanding, striving to make these heartless actions a thing of the past.

Jaren

In today’s fast-paced world, where instant gratification reigns supreme, patience can often feel like a forgotten virtue. Yet, as we navigate life’s unpredictable storms, patience becomes our guiding anchor, steering us towards tranquility and understanding.

“Be it rain or shine” encapsulates the spirit of embracing life with all its unpredictability. Every twist and turn, every challenge and joy, adds depth to our story. Instead of resisting, we can choose to embrace and appreciate the journey, nurturing resilience within us.

In the midst of this noisy world, learning to be still is essential. This stillness, whether found through meditation, a walk in nature, or a deep breath, reconnects us with our inner core. By tuning into ourselves, we find patience and understanding, silencing the chaotic outside world.

Cultivating gratitude is another key. Through the lens of gratitude, we see the world in its fullness, focusing on the abundance rather than what’s lacking. This shift in perspective not only diminishes impatience but nurtures an appreciative outlook on life.

Life constantly presents us with decisions, and improving our ability to choose rest over distress can significantly impact our peace of mind. It’s not about avoiding challenges, but about facing them with a serene heart and calm mind.

Lastly, strengthening our faith, in whatever form it takes, provides a bedrock for patience. This unwavering belief reassures us that, even if we don’t see the bigger picture now, everything is unfolding as it should.

In essence, patience isn’t just about waiting, but about how we wait. By intertwining these insights into our daily lives, we find ourselves more at peace, gracefully surfing the waves of life, no matter how tumultuous they may be.

Jaren

As I was cutting the lawn, the familiar, hauntingly beautiful chords of Dan Filferberg’s “Leader of the Band” began playing on my playlist. The serendipity of the moment was uncanny. Just the night before, I had spent a heartwarming evening with my son and his wife, watching them interact, seeing the man he has become—a doting father, a loving husband, and a steadfast provider.

There’s an indescribable sensation in witnessing your child’s growth, a cocktail of pride, nostalgia, and wonder. It feels like just yesterday he was a young boy, his laughter echoing through our home. And now, our youngest daughter stands on the precipice of a new chapter, about to be married.

The song’s lyrics resonated deep within me:

“His hands were meant

For different work

And his heart was known to none.”

It led me to reflect on my own father, a stalwart pillar of strength and wisdom. His teachings, both spoken and unspoken, carved out the path I’ve walked. His silent sacrifices, his unwavering love, shaped my world.

“A quiet man of music 

Denied a simpler fate…”

Being both a son and a father, I’ve been fortunate to witness life’s beauty from both vantage points. I’ve felt the warmth of a guiding hand, and now I offer mine. Through life’s melodies and occasional dissonance, the lessons passed down by my father—my band’s leader—are the tunes I now hum to my children.

“I thank you for the music 

And your stories of the road 

I thank you for the freedom 

When it came my time to go.”

It’s an immense blessing, one that fills me with gratitude. For in my heart, I carry the legacy of a great man and hope to pass on a similar legacy to my own children.

“My life has been a poor attempt 

To imitate the man 

I’m just a living legacy 

To the leader of the band.”

To all who read this, may you find a moment to reflect on the leaders of your bands. To cherish the memories, to express gratitude, and to understand the depth of the bonds that shape us. For in these reflections, we find the true essence of life’s journey.

Jaren

In a world seemingly adrift, “The Vanishing Virtue: Empowering Your Journey to Unshakeable Belief” emerges as a beacon of hope, guiding us back to the cornerstone of our shared humanity—faith. At a time when many have distanced themselves from religious institutions, lost faith in their own abilities and potential, and have become skeptical of others, this book offers a transformative journey to rediscover the potency and resilience of belief.

Jaren invites you on a profound exploration of faith’s impact on individuals and communities, unveiling the power it possesses to sustain us amidst life’s most challenging times. “The Vanishing Virtue” presents inspiring tales of unyielding faith from every corner of the globe and across the annals of history. These narratives highlight the significant role of belief in shaping societies, spurring progress, and providing solace in the face of hardship.

But faith, as this book illustrates, is more than a historical narrative; it is a personal compass, an internal guide that resides within us all. By delving into the heart of this mystery, we find a path to leading a truly remarkable life. This book encourages us to search within ourselves, nurture our intrinsic spiritual inclinations, and build a foundation of faith that infuses our lives with profound meaning.

“The Vanishing Virtue” confronts the challenges head-on. It faces the skepticism, doubts, and a myriad of obstacles to faith in our modern world. It untangles misconceptions, dismantles monolithic beliefs, and provides a captivating discourse on how faith and reason, science, and the divine can coexist harmoniously.

Embark on a journey of discovery within these pages. Find inspiration in the enduring power of faith, resilience in the face of adversity, and hope in an often daunting world. This book serves as an invitation to unlock the stunning beauty and reality of faith and experience the transformative impact it can wield on your life.

“The Vanishing Virtue: Empowering Your Journey to Unshakeable Belief” is more than a book—it’s an exploration of the human spirit and a call to personal enlightenment. You won’t merely read it; you’ll live it. Your journey begins here. Are you ready?

My book can be purchased on Amazon here: https://a.co/d/8PhNbg4

In a world seemingly adrift, “The Vanishing Virtue: Empowering Your Journey to Unshakeable Belief” emerges as a beacon of hope, guiding us back to the cornerstone of our shared humanity—faith. At a time when many have distanced themselves from religious institutions, lost faith in their own abilities and potential, and have become skeptical of others, this book offers a transformative journey to rediscover the potency and resilience of belief.

Jaren invites you on a profound exploration of faith’s impact on individuals and communities, unveiling the power it possesses to sustain us amidst life’s most challenging times. “The Vanishing Virtue” presents inspiring tales of unyielding faith from every corner of the globe and across the annals of history. These narratives highlight the significant role of belief in shaping societies, spurring progress, and providing solace in the face of hardship.

But faith, as this book illustrates, is more than a historical narrative; it is a personal compass, an internal guide that resides within us all. By delving into the heart of this mystery, we find a path to leading a truly remarkable life. This book encourages us to search within ourselves, nurture our intrinsic spiritual inclinations, and build a foundation of faith that infuses our lives with profound meaning.

“The Vanishing Virtue” confronts the challenges head-on. It faces the skepticism, doubts, and a myriad of obstacles to faith in our modern world. It untangles misconceptions, dismantles monolithic beliefs, and provides a captivating discourse on how faith and reason, science, and the divine can coexist harmoniously.

Embark on a journey of discovery within these pages. Find inspiration in the enduring power of faith, resilience in the face of adversity, and hope in an often daunting world. This book serves as an invitation to unlock the stunning beauty and reality of faith and experience the transformative impact it can wield on your life.

“The Vanishing Virtue: Empowering Your Journey to Unshakeable Belief” is more than a book—it’s an exploration of the human spirit and a call to personal enlightenment. You won’t merely read it; you’ll live it. Your journey begins here. Are you ready?

My book can be purchased on Amazon here: https://a.co/d/8PhNbg4

It will be coming to Ingram soon.

Verse 1

Thought life would be a straight and narrow road, But it’s taken turns, and I’ve been feelin’ low,
I’m searchin’ for the truth, the heart of me, Beggin’ for a chance, just to be set free.

Chorus

Life ain’t what I thought it would be, I’m standin’ here just tryin’ to be me. I’m askin’ you, can’t you see,
All I need is to be free.

Verse 2

We’re raised on dreams, our eyes on the skies, But life comes around and opens our eyes, The world ain’t as simple as it seemed before, I’m seeking’s somethin’ real, so much more.

Chorus

Life ain’t what I thought it would be, I’m standin’ here just tryin’ to be me. I’m askin’ you, can’t you see,
All I need is to be free.

Bridge

Our heroes, they’re just like you and me, Searchin’ for love, just tryin’ to be,
Not the fame or the fortune that they own,
But the heart and soul that’s deep in their bones.

Chorus

Life ain’t what I thought it would be, I’m standin’ here just tryin’ to be me. I’m askin’ you, can’t you see,
All I need is to be free.

Verse 3

We’ve got our hopes, our dreams, and our fears, But I won’t be chained by what others hear,
The day that I break free, I’ll finally see,
What it’s like to live, to truly be me.

Outro

Life ain’t what I thought it would be, But I’ll keep on fightin’, tryin’ to be me, In your eyes, I hope you’ll see,
All I ever wanted was to be free.

America, at this pivotal moment, stands at a crossroads. The decline in the quality of education and an uptick in corruption have left indelible marks on the nation’s democratic fabric. My journey of writing a book on faith was fueled by observing these very challenges. At its core, the book sought to explore the spiritual and societal underpinnings that can guide a nation through tumultuous waters.

For America to remain a beacon of democracy and republicanism, there’s an urgent need to rejuvenate the educational system and rigorously root out corruption. This spiritual and moral renewal is paramount, and the teachings of faith provide an illuminating path.

Politics, traditionally the theater of policy and governance, has increasingly turned into a spectacle of drama and division. This theatrical nature is further amplified by the aging leadership. While experience is invaluable, the infusion of young, dynamic leaders with fresh perspectives and innovative ideas is the need of the hour. Their stances and advocacies mirror the deep-rooted changes our nation so desperately needs.

At the heart of any true democracy lies its grassroots connection. However, the modern political landscape seems to be overshadowed by elite interests. Bridging this gap is crucial to ensure that politics remains truly representative.

A concerning trend is the discarding of historical and cultural values. As societies evolve, history’s teachings remain crucial. Dismissing our past can lead to societal fragmentation.

The digital age, while heralding progress, also poses challenges. Over-reliance on technology and the increasing use of AI models in communication risk diminishing genuine human creativity and connection. 

Beneath these issues is the existential threat of cultural exhaustion and nihilism. The nation is witnessing a trend where individuals feel disconnected and devoid of purpose. Here, the tenets of faith provide solace and direction. As a society, America must strive to create an environment of connection, value, and purpose.

In essence, for America to secure its democratic future, there must be an integrated approach, one that harnesses the guidance of faith, focuses on revitalizing education, restores political integrity, ushers in new leadership, rekindles grassroots connectivity, cherishes cultural heritage, achieves a technology-life balance, and fosters a sense of purpose and community.