The story of Leah and Rachel, found in the Book of Genesis, describes how they were both daughters of Laban and wives of Jacob. The Bible portrays Rachel as physically beautiful, while Leah is described with “weak eyes” or less striking features, depending on the translation. This contrast in appearance is often interpreted as a way to highlight deeper themes within the story, such as the difference between external beauty and inner virtues.

The distinction between Leah and Rachel’s beauty can be seen as reflecting societal values and cultural perceptions of attractiveness at the time. However, the narrative ultimately suggests that beauty alone does not determine one’s worth or destiny. Leah, despite not being favored initially, became the mother of several important tribes of Israel, including Judah, from whom King David and ultimately Jesus are descended. This indicates that God’s plan and favor are not based solely on outward appearance but on purpose and character.

The story serves as a reminder that beauty is subjective and temporary, while inner qualities such as faith, perseverance, and devotion hold lasting significance. It challenges the reader to look beyond superficial judgments and recognize the deeper value in individuals.

Is it Unfair?

IThe story of Leah and Rachel, like many ancient narratives, reflects the cultural and social values of the time, which often placed a high emphasis on physical beauty and societal status. These values can seem unfair, especially when viewed through a modern lens that strives for equality and deeper appreciation of individuals beyond appearance.

However, one of the key messages in Leah’s story is that life’s perceived injustices can lead to unexpected blessings. Leah, despite not being favored, was deeply loved by God and played a crucial role in the lineage of Israel. Her experiences reflect the reality that people often face situations that seem unfair, yet they can still find purpose, fulfillment, and even divine favor in unexpected ways.

In today’s context, the story invites reflection on how we define worth and beauty. While society may continue to place emphasis on external attributes, Leah’s journey encourages looking beyond surface-level judgments and recognizing the unique contributions and strengths that each person brings, regardless of how they are perceived by others.

Not all assets are physical. There are tons of assets beyond real estate, paper assets, and money.

Non-traditional assets are qualities or characteristics that aren’t typically measured in monetary or material terms but can still hold significant value in personal, professional, and social contexts. Here are some examples:

• Kindness – Being considerate and empathetic toward others can create strong relationships, build trust, and foster a positive environment. It’s an asset in both personal and professional settings, as it encourages cooperation and collaboration.

• Intelligence – Beyond traditional academic success, intelligence includes emotional intelligence, creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving abilities. It’s an asset because it allows you to navigate complex situations, adapt to new challenges, and innovate.

• Beauty – While often associated with physical appearance, beauty can also refer to inner beauty, such as the warmth, compassion, and positivity that someone radiates. It can positively impact relationships and social interactions, both personally and professionally.

• Resilience – The ability to bounce back from setbacks, adapt to change, and keep going in the face of adversity is invaluable. Resilience helps you navigate life’s challenges and maintain a positive attitude even during tough times.

• Humor – Being able to make others laugh or find joy in difficult situations is a powerful asset. It can ease tension, foster connections, and make people feel comfortable and engaged.

• Authenticity – Staying true to yourself and your values, rather than trying to conform to others’ expectations, can build trust and credibility. Authenticity encourages respect and can lead to deeper, more meaningful relationships.

• Social Intelligence – The ability to understand and navigate social situations, reading cues, building rapport, and understanding others’ emotions and needs, is crucial for both personal and professional success.

• Work Ethic – A strong commitment to doing your best, being reliable, and having a diligent, persistent attitude toward tasks, even when it’s challenging, can set you apart and lead to success over time.

• Creativity – The ability to think outside the box, come up with new ideas, and approach problems from different angles is a valuable asset, especially in innovative fields or any situation requiring fresh solutions.

• Patience – The ability to remain calm and composed in stressful situations or when dealing with others’ challenges is an asset that enhances relationships and improves decision-making.

• Networking Skills – Building and maintaining relationships with a diverse range of people can create opportunities, foster collaborations, and provide support when needed.

These non-traditional assets often lead to long-term personal growth, success, and happiness, even though they may not be immediately measurable in financial terms.

Jesus Christ possessed a range of non-traditional assets that made him a profound and transformative figure. These qualities set him apart and continue to inspire millions across the world, even though he didn’t hold conventional forms of wealth, power, or status. He was not an emperor, did not own real estate, and didn’t have a huge bank account, yet his influence has remained unmatched in history.

One of the most remarkable assets Jesus demonstrated was compassion. He consistently showed deep empathy toward the suffering and the marginalized, offering comfort, healing, and love to those in need. His compassion was not just about alleviating physical suffering but also addressing emotional and spiritual pain, making him a beacon of hope for many.

Another significant asset was his wisdom. Jesus possessed profound spiritual and moral insight that challenged conventional wisdom of the time. His teachings often provoked thought, urging people to rethink their values, especially in terms of love, justice, and humility. He spoke in parables, allowing listeners to reflect on deeper meanings and guiding them toward spiritual growth.

Humility was a key characteristic of Jesus. Despite his divine nature, he displayed extraordinary humility throughout his life. He served others, washing the feet of his disciples, and emphasized that true greatness comes from serving others. This radical humility set him apart in a society that often valued power and status.

Forgiveness was another powerful non-traditional asset that Jesus embodied. His ability to forgive others, even when wronged or betrayed, is seen most profoundly in his final words on the cross, where he forgave those who crucified him. His teachings on forgiveness were revolutionary, advocating for forgiveness even in the face of deep personal harm. This message continues to resonate deeply in the lives of millions.

Jesus also exemplified unconditional love. His love was not restricted to those who followed him or treated him well. He extended love to all, including those who rejected him and even his enemies. His love for humanity was evident in his sacrifices, offering both spiritual and physical healing to those he encountered.

Patience was another asset Jesus displayed in abundance. Despite being misunderstood and challenged by many, he remained patient, teaching his disciples and followers with care. He did not demand immediate understanding but allowed time for growth and learning, showing that patience is a virtue in relationships and teaching.

Courage was a defining feature of Jesus’ life. He stood firm in his beliefs, often challenging religious authorities and societal norms, even when it led to his eventual crucifixion. His willingness to confront injustice and speak truth to power showed immense bravery, and he did so without fear of personal loss.

Jesus also had a powerful vision for humanity. His message about the Kingdom of God emphasized love, peace, and reconciliation. His vision encouraged people to imagine a world beyond suffering and injustice, inspiring countless individuals to work toward a better future for themselves and others.

Charisma was another asset that drew people to Jesus. He was not a leader who relied on wealth, power, or status to attract followers. Instead, his authenticity, wisdom, and presence made him magnetic. People from all walks of life were drawn to him, and his message resonated with them on a deep, spiritual level.

Jesus’ empathy was unmatched. He had an extraordinary ability to connect with people, understanding their struggles and pain in a way that made them feel seen, heard, and understood. His empathy allowed him to form genuine relationships with people, meeting them where they were and helping them grow spiritually.

These non-traditional assets were central to Jesus Christ’s impact on the world. Despite not holding traditional forms of power or wealth, such as being an emperor, owning property, or having a large bank account, his influence has been greater than many rulers throughout history. His legacy continues to inspire people today through his compassion, wisdom, humility, and love. Through his example, Jesus demonstrated that true power comes not from material possessions or societal status, but from compassion, wisdom, love, and service to others.

Re-Cap:

• • Compassion – Jesus showed empathy and healing toward the suffering and marginalized.
  • Wisdom – He possessed deep spiritual and moral insight, challenging conventional wisdom.
  • Humility – Despite his divine nature, Jesus displayed extraordinary humility, emphasizing service over status.
  • Forgiveness – He forgave others, even in the face of personal betrayal, and taught the power of forgiveness.
  • Unconditional love – His love extended to all people, including enemies and those who rejected him.
  • Patience – Jesus demonstrated patience in teaching and guiding others, allowing for growth over time.
  • Courage – He stood firm in his beliefs and confronted injustice, even when it led to his crucifixion.
  • Vision – His message focused on the Kingdom of God, promoting love, peace, and reconciliation.
  • Charisma – Jesus attracted people through his authenticity, wisdom, and presence, not through power or wealth.
  • Empathy – He had a unique ability to connect with others and understand their struggles on a deep level.

Being > #1: Redefining Success and Finding Joy in the Journey

Introduction: The Myth of #1

We’ve been told our whole lives that being first is everything. The best student, the top athlete, the number one performer, the most successful entrepreneur. First place means prestige, recognition, and success. And so, we push. We strive. We exhaust ourselves.

But what if I told you that being—simply existing, experiencing, and growing—is greater than being first?

Being > #1.

Let that sink in for a moment.

Because sometimes, being #1 comes with a price. And sometimes, not being first is the greatest gift of all.

Section 1: The Cost of Being #1

I want you to picture an Olympic athlete standing on the podium, gold medal around their neck. A lifetime of dedication, early mornings, grueling training, sacrifices. They’ve reached the pinnacle of their career. But what happens next?

Many Olympic athletes, after winning gold, fall into depression. They spend years chasing the top, only to realize once they’re there—it’s fleeting. The applause fades. The cameras turn away. And they’re left with one haunting question: What now?

This doesn’t just happen in sports. Think about CEOs, doctors, entrepreneurs—people who dedicate everything to being the best in their field. How many of them reach the top only to find themselves burned out, disconnected from their families, or questioning whether it was all worth it?

The world tells us that being first is the goal. But it doesn’t always tell us about the sacrifices—the missed birthdays, the lost friendships, the mental toll.

And here’s the secret no one talks about: There is no finish line. No moment where you’ve “made it” and get to rest forever.

So what if instead of obsessing over being first, we embraced the idea that simply being—fully present, fully engaged, fully alive—is actually greater?

Section 2: The Power of Being Present

There’s a Japanese concept called Ikigai, which means “reason for being.” It’s about finding joy in the process, not just in the outcome.

In Okinawa, Japan, there’s a village where people live longer, happier lives than almost anywhere else in the world. Not because they have the best healthcare or because they’re the richest, but because they don’t chase being number one. They wake up, they tend their gardens, they drink tea with friends, they laugh. They live in a way that embraces the journey, not just the destination.

This idea is everywhere when you start looking for it.

Have you ever seen a child completely absorbed in play? They don’t care about being first. They don’t care if their tower of blocks is taller than someone else’s. They’re just in it. Fully present. Fully alive.

That’s the power of being.

But somewhere along the way, we lose that. We start measuring our worth in rankings, awards, and comparisons. We start thinking, If I’m not the best, am I even good enough?

And that’s where we get it all wrong.

Because life isn’t a competition. It’s an experience.

Section 3: The Blessing of Not Being First

Not being number one is often seen as a failure. But what if it’s actually a blessing?

Think about the second-place finisher in a race. They don’t have the pressure of defending a title, yet they’re still incredibly accomplished. They can enjoy the sport without the weight of expectation crushing them.

Or consider the person who doesn’t take the highest-paying job but instead chooses one that allows them time with family, time to travel, time to live. Are they truly losing? Or are they actually winning in the game of life?

There’s a freedom in not being first. A freedom to explore, to pivot, to enjoy the little things.

Some of the greatest musicians, artists, and thinkers of our time were never “number one.” Vincent van Gogh never sold a painting while he was alive. Emily Dickinson’s poetry wasn’t recognized until after her death. But does that make their work any less valuable?

And what about in our own lives?

The quiet moments—the ones that aren’t ranked or measured—often end up being the most meaningful.

Think about the last time you laughed with a friend until your stomach hurt.
Or the time you watched a sunset and felt completely at peace.
Or the moments with family, with love, with joy—things that can’t be put on a scoreboard.

That’s what being > 1 really means.

It means realizing that life isn’t about where you place—it’s about how you live.

Conclusion: Living the “Being > 1” Mindset

So how do we start living this way?

Three things:

1. Measure success by fulfillment, not comparison. Instead of asking, Am I the best? ask, Am I happy? Am I growing?

2. Celebrate progress, not just achievement. Every step forward matters. Don’t wait for some final victory to enjoy the process.

3. Prioritize being over proving. Instead of trying to impress, focus on what truly matters to you.

Because at the end of the day, no one’s going to remember what rank you were in your industry, what award you won, or what title you held.

They’re going to remember how you lived. How you loved. How you were.

And that’s why Being > #11.

Thank you.

Resilience: – The Power of Bouncing Back

Resilience is more than just a buzzword; it’s a crucial life skill that allows individuals to withstand, adapt, and thrive despite adversity. It’s the ability to recover from setbacks, face challenges head-on, and maintain mental and emotional strength during difficult times. While some may be born with a natural inclination toward resilience, it’s a trait that can be cultivated and strengthened over time.

What is Resilience?

At its core, resilience is the process of bouncing back from adversity. It’s not about avoiding hardship but about how we respond to it. Resilient people don’t dwell on their failures or allow challenges to define them. Instead, they acknowledge difficulties, learn from them, and move forward with determination.

Resilience isn’t a static trait; it’s dynamic and fluid. Just as physical strength improves with exercise, resilience strengthens through practice. It involves emotional regulation, adaptability, and a strong sense of purpose, all of which can help navigate life’s ups and downs.

The Components of Resilience

• • Emotional Awareness – Understanding and accepting your emotions during times of stress is essential. Resilient individuals can acknowledge their feelings, whether it’s fear, frustration, or sadness, and use them as a tool for growth rather than letting them control their actions.

  • Adaptability – The ability to adapt to changing circumstances is vital. Life is unpredictable, and being able to pivot or adjust your mindset can make all the difference in how you face challenges.

  • Self-Efficacy – Belief in your own ability to navigate through tough times strengthens resilience. This sense of self-assurance allows individuals to take action, even when the path forward seems unclear.

  • Support Systems – Building a network of supportive relationships can provide both comfort and encouragement during difficult times. Whether through friends, family, or professionals, having people to lean on helps bolster resilience.

How to Cultivate Resilience

• • Reframe Challenges – Shifting your perspective on adversity can help you view challenges as opportunities for growth rather than obstacles. Embrace the idea that setbacks are a natural part of life and offer valuable lessons.

  • Develop Coping Strategies – Having a toolkit of coping mechanisms can help you handle stress in a healthier way. These could include mindfulness practices, physical activity, journaling, or simply taking a break to clear your mind.

  • Set Small, Achievable Goals – Break larger goals into smaller, more manageable tasks. Achieving these smaller objectives helps build confidence and provides momentum to keep pushing forward.

  • Practice Self-Compassion – Resilient people aren’t immune to self-doubt or disappointment, but they treat themselves with kindness when they face setbacks. Practice self-compassion by recognizing that everyone makes mistakes, and growth comes from learning.

Resilience in Action

Real-world examples of resilience are abundant. Consider individuals who have overcome extreme adversity, such as natural disasters, illness, or personal loss, and emerged stronger on the other side. Resilience is seen in people who lose their jobs but continue to pursue their passions, in athletes who come back after career-threatening injuries, and in entrepreneurs who fail but keep starting again.

Resilience isn’t about pretending everything is fine in the face of adversity—it’s about facing the reality of difficult situations while finding ways to move forward. It’s the ability to turn struggle into strength and emerge more capable and self-aware.

The Importance of Resilience

The importance of resilience cannot be overstated. In a world that’s filled with uncertainties and challenges, being resilient can make the difference between falling into despair and continuing to move forward. It enables individuals to handle stress, improve their mental health, and maintain a sense of control in turbulent times.

Cultivating resilience can lead to a more fulfilling life. It encourages personal growth, fosters a positive outlook, and enhances one’s ability to tackle future obstacles with confidence. Resilience, at its heart, is about embracing the ebb and flow of life and using each experience to become a stronger, more empowered individual.

Conclusion

Resilience is not an inherent trait reserved for a select few—it’s a skill that everyone can develop. By focusing on emotional awareness, adaptability, self-efficacy, and support, individuals can build resilience and face life’s challenges with greater strength and determination. As we move through life’s inevitable ups and downs, resilience allows us not only to survive but to thrive, emerging from adversity with a deeper understanding of ourselves and a renewed sense of purpose.

I’m not throwing any stones. Just sharing some stats in non-
APA format!

Prevalence of Adultery:

• • General Statistics – A 2021 survey indicated that approximately 21% of respondents in the U.S. admitted to having cheated on any partner, current or previous. (statista.com)

  • Gender Differences – Historically, studies have shown that men are more likely to engage in extramarital affairs than women. For instance, a 1997 study found that 23.2% of men and 19.2% of women reported having cheated during their current relationship. (en.wikipedia.org – Yes, I’m using Wikipedia here!)

Demographic Variations:

• • Age – Infidelity rates can vary by age group. For example, men aged 65 and older have a higher reported rate of infidelity compared to women in the same age group. (smithinvestigationagency.com)

  • Race and Ethnicity – Studies have found differences in infidelity rates among racial and ethnic groups. For instance, 22% of ever-married Black adults reported having cheated on their spouse, compared to 16% of White adults and 13% of Hispanic adults. (ifstudies.org)

  • Political and Religious Factors – Political identity and religious activity are also associated with infidelity. Democrats and individuals who rarely or never attend religious services are more likely to have cheated on their spouse. (ifstudies.org)

Trends Over Time:

• • While specific data on trends over time is limited, some studies suggest that the gender gap in infidelity rates may be narrowing. For example, women born in the 1940s and 1950s were more likely than other women to be unfaithful to their spouse, and men born in the 1930s and 1940s had a higher rate than other age groups of men. (ifstudies.org). In my humble opinion, the was related to the accepted culture of the time.

Considerations:

• • Self-reported data on sensitive topics like infidelity may be subject to underreporting due to social desirability bias. Some studies have found that individuals are more likely to admit to infidelity in anonymous surveys compared to face-to-face interviews (of course)!. (healthymarriageinfo.org)