Why Blog?

I started to blog after realizing the power of networking with others through social media. I figured it could benefit my forthcoming book sales and it was fun. I soon discovered blogging was therapeutic and perhaps I could inspire someone, somewhere. I had no idea what it could lead to at the time.

Blogging has given me the confidence to express my thoughts, feelings and life. It has allowed me to enter a theater of new friends and re-unite old friendships. I’ve been fortunate to have established professional relationships with other writers. The short-term benefits have been fantastic and the long-term unknown and exciting.

I didn’t ask permission or wait to be chosen. I took the initiative because I must. It is my destiny, future and the only way to make an impact. It’s what I do best with conviction and passion. My vehicle, voice and decision to be all- I can be.

It’s what I look forward to every day. The opportunity to reach-out to other people and make a difference is special. Whether my blog is a rant, review or interview, it’s something I am proud to share with you. Not everyone will agree with my view, but that’s ok.

I am here to open your eyes to a better way, explore some possibilities and distinguish right from wrong. I explain what makes some things tick and why they’re good or bad. Other times, I build people up or call a duck, a duck. It’s who I am.

My blog is despised by some and a blessing for others. I write about what some only whisper, speak in hushed tones or are too fearful to confront. Writing often inspires me to conquer fear and bring the truth to light. This mission is what I stand for and is responsible for inspiring my audience.

I approach writing stories like a child first seeing the Christmas gifts under the tree. Hopefully, my words, stories and insight will resonate with you as much. At the very least, my wish is to do “something meaningful that matters” for you!

Until We Meet Again,
 Jim Carver

Author: The Legacy of David A. Wells- The Lexington High School “Band of Gold”
Something Meaningful that Matters!
www.successthroughmusic.com

http://jimcarver.blogspot.com/

Disclaimer- Books and links on this website contain affiliate marketing sources between Jim Carver and third party companies. I only recommend products, brands and businesses that I strongly support. Photos used on this site are used courtesy of the original authors and in no way endorse The Rust Belt Chronicles or my work. Thank you.

The Bridge to Becoming an Artist!

 

12 Steps to the Bridge:

 

·        You get a great idea and go to work late because formulating and documenting your idea is more important than a job.

·        The goals you follow aren’t someone else’s.

·        Your family, friends, and co-workers think you’re crazy by doing something radically different.

·        Criticism doesn’t slow you down.

·        You quit attending cubicle nation and forge your own path.

·        The only formal meeting you attend is with your tax accountant.

·        Success or failure is just a speed-bump in the journey.

·        Fear no longer prevents you from doing something meaningful that matters.

·        Decisions you make are no longer based on selfish motives.  

·        You no longer go to battle because you are told too; you do so because you must.

·        You realize you’re an Artist with the ability to change the world.

·        You no longer have a job; you have a Dream to Live.

Once you cross that bridge there's no turning back. You've turned pro and have the duty, responsibility and freedom to do something remarkable. Create your Art and make a difference with the people YOU touch!

Until We Meet Again,
 Jim Carver

Author: The Legacy of David A. Wells- The Lexington High School “Band of Gold”
Something Meaningful that Matters!
www.successthroughmusic.com

http://jimcarver.blogspot.com/

Disclaimer- Books and links on this website contain affiliate marketing sources between Jim Carver and third party companies. I only recommend products, brands and businesses that I strongly support. Photos used on this site are used courtesy of the original authors and in no way endorse The Rust Belt Chronicles or my work. Thank you.

This Blog is For You!!

Being laid-off yesterday from my previous employer for nearly 32 years provided a manic day of highs and lows for me. I stayed –up until sunrise writing and thinking. Lots of questions kept shooting through my mind. I sent emails, made phone calls and searched Google for questions, seeking clarity, comfort or solutions.  

Then, I realized everything doesn’t have to be known all at once.

My obsessive compulsive mind was racing due to the fear of the unknown. The long term is something none of us can control. Only God knows the outcome. He is the only one I can put my trust in to lead me to where He wants me. Today is all we have to make a difference.

After I finally slept this morning, it was time to take care of some more business. I have the evening to write, connect and hopefully be creative with some new ideas. I am hoping this time allows my creative juices to inspire you and present a few new ideas. In my case, I need to make some decisions, move forward with purpose, strength and experience.

I am excited to finally have the opportunity to speak my mind. Those of you who know me realize; I have no problem dissecting situations. I’ve often found myself in situations where I had to censor stories to the extent that part of the story wasn’t printed. I went through that situation when I wrote my first book and most of my previous blogs. Now I am thrilled to be able to express my beliefs, experiences and thoughts.

My First Guest Blog Post

My friend Mary, asked me to provide a guest post for her wonderful blog back in December. I initially hesitated because I had never provided a guest blog before in my life and my fear was it wouldn’t do her audience justice. The other day I wrote a blog that was somewhat different than my normal rants and I thought it was time to take a chance. Your kind words and thoughts have been uplifting and timing impeccable.

Thank you, Mary!

You may find Mary’s Blog here, so visit her site often as she is a great storyteller, devout Christian and takes a heroic stand for political justice.

You've Touched My Heart

I must thank my wife, Jane Carver, for her love and support (I’ve nicknamed her “The Hospital Slayer” for having the courage to stand-up for her rights and dignity). God blessed me with Jane as a wife, companion and best friend! She is a pillar of strength.

My Mother, who is always there to listen, sympathizes and offer encouragement. I couldn’t ask for a better Mom!

Ann Musico- you are such a blessing to have met online and your continued support inspires me.

Michael Gough- Your humbling message has inspired me as you always do!

Cheryl Wynn- for your conviction and telling me to keep my chin-up!

The comments and support from my co-workers and friends have helped to take the sting out of the latest adventure. Some of the folks online I’ve never met and people I haven’t seen since 1975 really made my day with your comments and opinions. Jane and I truly are blessed to have you in our circle of friendship. We thank you all from our heart!

Last but not least- those who were afraid to post, connect or express themselves, in which case- This Blog is for you!

Until We Meet Again,
 Jim Carver

Author: The Legacy of David A. Wells- The Lexington High School “Band of Gold”
Something Meaningful that Matters!
www.successthroughmusic.com

http://jimcarver.blogspot.com/

Disclaimer- Books and links on this website contain affiliate marketing sources between Jim Carver and third party companies. I only recommend products, brands and businesses that I strongly support. Photos used on this site are used courtesy of the original authors and in no way endorse The Rust Belt Chronicles or my work. Thank you.

Free at Last!

Earlier today, my boss walked into my office, stating: “Let’s take a walk, we have something to discuss.” The scene reminded me of the Prisoners of War being befriending by their captors and one day having to lead the walk to the gas chamber. ‘Just doing my job’ is what they were told prior to the executions. I am sure it was a stressful situation for him as well and people do what they must do to protect themselves.

The President of Human Resources and my department Vice President were seated in the room. The HR person proceeded to tear-up and give me the script of “Due to a reduction of staff, unfortunately your job has been eliminated.” I was extremely nervous, but relieved at the same time.

Our medical insurance expires at the end of the month. My head is spinning with thoughts of bills, debt and our very existance. What to do next? How can I even sleep? How can a system that two people gave nearly 65 years of your blood, sweat and tears just toss you aside?

Ethics require a Heart and a Conscience

With my wife being laid-off in June from the same employer, two questions have recently been on my mind:

When a company knows the husband and wife are depended on the income of the same employer would it be ethical to lay both spouses off?

 

When you lay-off the spouse, how ethical is it to fight against unemployment benefits when the other spouse is still employed by the same employer?

 

The Writing on the Wall

I was expecting to be laid-off partly because:

·        Last Friday, my wife won her hearing with the State of Ohio against her former employer protesting her unemployment compensation.

·        My boss has mostly steered away from me for a month or so.

·        The institution announced upcoming layoffs weeks ago.

The few take-a-ways from the last 32 years are getting to know some great people. I must thank my former employer for the inspiration for much of my writing over the last few years. It appears age, years of service, the strategic plan and challenging the system comes with a price. A price I have gladly paid to do Something Meaningful that Matters.

So ironically- on Martin Luther King Day; I am finally - Free at Last!

Until We Meet Again,
 Jim Carver

Author: The Legacy of David A. Wells- The Lexington High School “Band of Gold”
Something Meaningful that Matters!
www.successthroughmusic.com

http://jimcarver.blogspot.com/

Disclaimer- Books and links on this website contain affiliate marketing sources between Jim Carver and third party companies. I only recommend products, brands and businesses that I strongly support. Photos used on this site are used courtesy of the original authors and in no way endorse The Rust Belt Chronicles or my work. Thank you.

Dreamer Wanted- Apply Here!

Dreamer Wanted

1.   Creative Artist with a Passion to Succeed.

2.   Someone tired of Fitting-In.

3.   An Individual who Resigned from the Status Quo.

4.   A person who doesn’t require a Map or Manual to function.

5.   Dislikes Meetings as much or more than we do.

6.   Makes Mistakes, while Doing the Work.

7.   Realizes Fear has no role in the Workplace.

8.   Fosters encouragement, excitement, and lives your own Dream.

 

9.   Someone who Stands-up for Truth and Honesty.

   10. Focuses on doing Something Meaningful that Matters!

Dreamer Wanted is my manifesto to create Art and make some noise. It’s what the common man would call a job description, but I call it my dream. It’s why I do my best work alone, by myself; to share with you. It revokes what we gave up to seek employment and gives us the freedom to find our calling and live our dreams!

Each one of us is born with the innate ability to dream and make a difference in the world.  It isn’t until we reach a certain age and others begin to tell us a different story; we begin to believe otherwise. This is why I am writing this blog. Because you no longer have to live someone else’s dream.

The other day my wife was discussing with a friend, my recent award on Bloggers.com as one of the Editor Picks of the Day. I’ve written 128 posts of The Rust Belt Chronicles (my blog) on Bloggers.com since June of 2012. Millions of bloggers post on the site, so the recognition is an honor to me and her. The other persons reply was: “Yea, well blogging doesn’t make money.”

In and of itself blogging may not make money right now, but the point is to network and build a tribe of followers. Subsequently, launch a business or movement and the website is this author’s platform. I don’t feel it is my responsibility to educate someone on social media who has no interest and follows the mindset of “yesteryear.” I’d rather focus on helping someone who wants to know and cares.

The other day, I ran across a blog by Terry Hadaway. He definitely gets it. Terry’s writing is top-notch with clarity and eloquence. Who knows maybe Terry and I will end-up on the same stage someday, write a book together or just become friends. Either way, it’s exciting to find someone who understands the pitfalls of the Industrial Age and the trapping of the minds involved.

So tune-out or remove yourself from those attempting to sabotage your dreams. Here’s a secret of being successful: When you are just about to turn the corner and reach a new plateau, the naysayers will jump out of nowhere to bash your work and distinguish your flame- if you allow it.

Every good battle has a moment of uncertainty, the brief question of resolve. It’s the nanosecond that attempts to separate your passion and cause; just keep your eye on the purpose and charge full-steam ahead!

That’s the battle we face every day to live our dreams!

Until We Meet Again,
 Jim Carver

Author: The Legacy of David A. Wells- The Lexington High School “Band of Gold”
Something Meaningful that Matters!
www.successthroughmusic.com

http://jimcarver.blogspot.com/

Disclaimer- Books and links on this website contain affiliate marketing sources between Jim Carver and third party companies. I only recommend products, brands and businesses that I strongly support. Photos used on this site are used courtesy of the original authors and in no way endorse The Rust Belt Chronicles or my work. Thank you.

Do you follow a Map or Compass?

I recently explained the fear tactics organizations use against their employees to a friend and her response was: “Well, that’s human nature.” I was stunned momentarily. I had forgotten people are so busy trying to fit-in, wanting to be liked and somehow have to justify other’s bullying style of actions. I also forgot, I had once thought just like her.

Accept your lot or be driven out. Don’t step out of line, follow the map.

Not true.

What was safe is now risky. If you wish to see a ship sink, just stay onboard. It’s coming quicker than you think. The life jacket wasn’t part of the deal. When you hit the iceberg of reality, the comfortable ride is over. 

Sooner or later she will realize it’s time to cut line, jump ship and move on. My hope is she doesn’t follow the masses.

I am hoping she finds her own boat with her own compass and steers the path towards success!

Until We Meet Again,
 Jim Carver

Author: The Legacy of David A. Wells- The Lexington High School “Band of Gold”
Something Meaningful that Matters!
www.successthroughmusic.com

http://jimcarver.blogspot.com/

Disclaimer- Books and links on this website contain affiliate marketing sources between Jim Carver and third party companies. I only recommend products, brands and businesses that I strongly support. Photos used on this site are used courtesy of the original authors and in no way endorse The Rust Belt Chronicles or my work. Thank you.

No Longer A Victim!

Once I understood the history and reasoning of fear the Industrial Age uses to control and leverage the common man; life has become less stressful. I no longer feel like a victim or sacrificial guinea pig. The tactics that once wrecked my day are just a speed bump in my rearview mirror. The power, I once allowed to rule my thoughts, decisions and health (while constantly wondering: “Why would you do that to someone”); no longer terrorizes my life.

In a world of profound technical advancement, it boggles the mind how organizations perpetuate terror through fear without the realization of human feelings or thought of an objective view. Organizations operating in the Industrial Age believe their purpose negates everyone and everything in relevance to their own agenda. Power corrupts from within and slowly those organizations are dying. The idea that “we will get whatever we want” doesn’t resonate nearly with as much value today.

We’ve been surrounded by this machine-type presence all of our lives. The Internet has made us aware of the ‘dirty deals’, ‘golden parachutes’, and lobbying to maintain power. The Internet is the voice of transparency in a cluttered world. We no longer have to wait for the newspaper to arrive or the 6 o’clock news.

The voice of the people is easily spread through real-time tweets, Facebook and instant messaging anywhere in the world. This has given the leverage back to the people. Public opinion has the ability to go ‘viral’ and bring a company to its knees overnight.

Why would organizations create a toxic work environment as business model?

·        It’s profitable.

·        They can.

·        It’s been this way for years.

·        They know no other way.

Those businesses enthralled deep into the Industrial Age are clutching their fists in an attempt to hang-on to the last dance. The barbaric/Neanderthal use of fear to captivate their employees is all that remains to justify their worth, power and control. The very system that told us to be flexible, accept change and be open to new ideas; is unable to adapt!

 Ironic- isn’t it?

Until We Meet Again,
 Jim Carver

Author: The Legacy of David A. Wells- The Lexington High School “Band of Gold”
Something Meaningful that Matters!
www.successthroughmusic.com

http://jimcarver.blogspot.com/

Disclaimer- Books and links on this website contain affiliate marketing sources between Jim Carver and third party companies. I only recommend products, brands and businesses that I strongly support. Photos used on this site are used courtesy of the original authors and in no way endorse The Rust Belt Chronicles or my work. Thank you.