"Relax, don't get excited," from my Pottsville High Teacher, Mr. Rogers

Current Situation:Reflection Questions:
Have you noticed in today's world people get excited, angry, and upset very easily?  Are there any calm people in the world today?  What do you do to stay calm when problems start occurring?

The purpose of this message is to simply report how I learned to cope with life's many problems such as having problems with my car.


Primary Issue: Mechanical Problems With My Car:
On Monday, I took my car to the Mazda dealer where I initially purchased my CX-7 Mazda.  I just took it there for an oil change.  In the process of changing my oil, they mentioned there was an expensive problem with my car which may cost about $2000.

On Tuesday,  I immediately took my car to my mechanic at the end of my block and he stated yes there is some engine work that needed to be done on my car.  The mechanic initially suggested that it was I think a "timing change issue" with my car.

Today, Wednesday, I again contacted my mechanic and he mentioned that he is still working on my car.  In addition, he said that additional work may need to be done.  The good news is the cost was not any where near what the dealer wanted from me and further more the worse case scenario was still aligned with my budget for these repairs.

My response to the mechanic was, "How do you walk a 10 mile marathon?" He looked at me a little puzzled.  I replied, "By taking one step at a time".  I explained to him this is how I think about problems in life and this is how he should solve the problems with my car.  He showed me several reports online about the mechanical problems with Mazda's CX-7.  I immediately said that this is the first time I had a major mechanical problem with my car in almost five years.

I really believe my car has worked well over the years because this is the very first time I am spending a sizable amount related to repairing my car.

My mechanic and I agreed to talk tomorrow---Thursday July 21, 2011 after he properly assessed the situation with my car. I refused to get upset about the situation with my car.

Lessons From My High School Health Teacher, Mr. Rogers:
Upon leaving the garage, I kept thinking of my Health Teacher from high school, Mr. Rogers who would always say, "Relax, Don't Get Excited".  I used this statement today to get through the day.  I know in my spirit every thing is going to be fine with my car.  Some might think or say I am crazy, but I have learned an important lesson in life and that is "to relax and don't get excited". 

Back in high school, Mr. Rogers would never yell or scream at students.  Although Mr. Rogers was a big guy, he would always remain calm. When students were yelling, screaming, or acting crazy; he would simply say, "Relax, Don't Get Excited".  I found myself saying this statement throughout the day.  I was still able to get my consulting projects finished, service my clients, and do my daily workout.

Concluding Remarks:

• I really believe people in the world would be in a different place if they learned to relax and manage their emotions and "Don't Get Excited".
• Everyday that I live this life, I am learning the importance of not over-reacting to stress, pressures, or various situations.  I also say to myself, "This Too Shall Pass".
• I sincerely pray and hope everyone learns the importance of staying calm and relaxing in the truth of the matter that God is able to help anyone through any storm in life.