To Me, "Watermelon" is the Slice of Life by Wally Amos

"How do you keep from getting sidetracked by the daily distractions in life? I have created two reminders that help me stay focused and positive.

"Write on a sheet of paper, 'I can be five times more enthusiastic about life!' Underline five times five times. Rip the paper in half and ball the two pieces in a tiny wad. Put a rubber band around the wad to keep it together. Put it in your pocket or your purse.

"It's been 12 years since I first did this exercise in a classroom in Charlotte, North Carolina. I've gone through a few wads of paper because when I lose or give one away, I immediately create another. I feel lost if I do not have it in my pocket.

"Not only does it remind me to be more enthusiastic, but also more loving, more giving and more faith-filled. It's a constant reminder that I can always increase the positive characteristics of life times five, times five, etc. Use it and see if it works for you.

"The second was inspired by a variety of sources. It's a credo based on watermelon -- my favorite symbol of life. I've given each letter in watermelon a positive meaning.

W --- Whatever you believe creates your reality.

A --- Attitude is the magic word.

T --- Together Everyone Achieves More (TEAM).

E --- Enthusiasm is the wellspring of life.

R --- Respect yourself and you will respect others.

M --- Make commitments, no excuses.

E --- Every day can be a fun day.

L --- Love is the answer.

O --- One day at a time.

N --- Never give up or become a victim.

"Why not create your own credo using something personal and special to you? Review it frequently. Share it with others. If it inspires and motivates you, it will do the same for them. One or both of these techniques might just be the answer to help you Be Positive. Happy New Year!"

Wally Amos is a nationally acclaimed inspirational speaker and author. You can e-mail Wally at amos@aloha.net or through his Web site at http://wallyamos.com.