December 16, 2023, has arrived. When I was trying to figure out a way to start this post, I stumbled onto a quote from John Rohn who said, “It is the set of the sails, not the direction of the wind that determines which way we will go.” Once again, someone saying that life is mostly up to you. More from John at the end of this post. Today is Barbie and Barney Backlash Day, Boston Tea Party Day, National Chocolate-Covered Anything Day, National Ugly Christmas Sweater Day, Stupid Toy Day, and Underdog Day. It’s also the last day of Lager Beer Week. On this day in 1431 King Henry VI of England was crowned King of France becoming the only monarch to wear both crowns. On this day in 1620 Myles Standish, leader of the Plymouth Colony, and 18 settlers were confronted by 30 Native Americans. This event is known as the “First Encounter.” On this day in 1773 the Boston tea party took place when the Sons of Liberty threw tea shipments into Boston harbor to protest the British Tea Act. Most people seem to believe that the Americans were angry about taxation without representation. The Tea Act cut the taxes for tea imported to America by the East Indian Tea Company giving them a virtual monopoly on tea. On this day in 1903 the Majestic Theater in NYC became the 1st in the US to employ women ushers. On this day in 1950 child star Shirley Temple announced her retirement from films at the age of 22. On the same day, President Truman declared a State of Emergency against “Communist Imperialism”. On this day in 2010 the final episode of “Larry King Live” aired on CNN. Now let’s get back to John Rohn who was a motivational speaker, author and businessman. Here are a few of his pearls of wisdom: “If you really want to do something, you’ll find a way. If you don’t, you’ll find an excuse.” “Your life does not get better by chance, it gets better by change.” “Take care of your body. It’s the only place you have to live.” “The more you know the less you need to say.” “Happiness is not something you postpone for the future; it is something you design for the present.” That’s enough for today. Abide.
