When to say yes

Reader Mark Bostic says some times you have to say yes.
That’s when you’re asked for a favor in your expertise.
When that happens, Mark happily obliges.
“It’s a chance to do what I do well,” he says.
“I get to freely give of my talents and do my best.
“By sticking with my expertise I contribute.
“And I feel good about it.”
Mark makes a good point.
Long ago, the Literacy Council asked me to serve on its board.
I was tempted. I believe everyone should be able to read.
My wife advised me to say no.
“You’re up to your neck in everything,” she said.
She was right. I was over committed. I said no.
But now literacy has become a passion.
I get to help with literacy now that I have a bit more time.
My goal is to raise $200 million to combat illiteracy.
The money comes from book sales and speaking engagements.
When you buy one of my books, you help with literacy.
Book me to speak, you’re helping with literacy, too.
This is not a sales pitch. I just wanted to let you know.
Now about saying “no” . . . or sometimes “yes”.
When you’re asked, and you will be, weigh the cost.
Weigh the benefits. Use Ben Franklin’s formula.
Make two columns. Benefits in one, Liabilities in the other.
If the good outweighs the bad, go for it.
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Put balance in your life

My "Do what you love" blog last week struck a nerve.
Blog reader Mark Bostic designs homes.
Mark admits his work is a true passion.
But he warns not to focus your life too narrowly.
"A job you love can be great," he said.
"But great passions must be under control."
Mark makes a great point.
I made that mistake as a young journalist.
I lived and breathed writing and journalism.
After MacLeod and I were married, I didn’t change.
I just kept on working 12 hours a day.
That hurt her as she was raising our first child.
I was unaware that I was neglecting both of them.
It took a confrontation to show me my error.
I convinced her to unpack but it took a lot of persuasion.
Last Sunday we went for a cruise on Lake Murray.
Ken and Laura Colt0n invited us to join them on their boat.
I realized this was the first time I had relaxed all week.
Even now my passion for what I do can consume me.
So I’m still working at it as I know many of you are.
Don’t let passion blind you. Life has many rewards.
Faith, family, country, community, your health and well being.
With balance, we multiply life’s rewards.
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