I love having a great friend of mine around me. I know that he will always be completely honest with me and share his true opinion on issues and that is a rarity these days. When we go shopping, he will be honest about what he thinks (good and bad) of the clothes I pick out. Yes he might say some clothes aren't flattering but when he says it looks amazing, I trust him. He will be real and honest with me (and everyone else) and that is characteristic I really appreciate in our friendship. I give the same thing back to him. I really admire his courage to be bold and stand up for himself. I have learned a lot from him. He isnt afraid to ask the tough questions.

The characteristic I learned from him and another good guy friend ( you guys know who you are) this year is to be assertive and to use your voice. Your opinion matters!!!!! You were given a voice - use it. However, the manner in how you say things should be done in thoughtful manner to the other person/people. So many of us are scared that we will hurt others feelings and want to please everyone that we are non-responsive. I think that if someone has a differing perspective than yours, you should respect them by hearing their response. You should look for value in what they are saying. Try to see the other's perspective - even though sometimes its hard. Find common ground. No one likes to be lectured at. We all have different experiences.

So my challenge for you is to Speak up and stand for something. If you don't stand for something, you fall for everything (as the old saying goes).

Thanks guys for teaching me to use my voice! I am an example of the power they taught me. I was scared to speak up before (weird I know because those who know me don't think I'll ever be quiet :P) Part of the reason I started this blog is to voice issues that I think need to be heard and to help others use theirs and not be afraid.

Thank you for reading and your presence at this beach retreat. You Rock! I'm looking forward to hearing your thoughts in the comment section below.

See you at the beach!