From Grievance to Gratitude

Ending my on-air participation in this podcast, I spent a short amount of time reflecting on some of the accomplishments we made. The bulk of this episode is to issue a challenge to those facing adversity, uncertainty, and a sense of helplessness. Through preparation, goal-setting, and steady progress we can overcome these challenges. "How do you eat and elephant? One bite at a time". Slow and steady wins the race!Don't forget to visit our website: https://muchmore2say.weebly.com/. You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

Life isn't always fair. We don't always get out of it what we put into it. But we can't just roll onto our backs like a dog who lost the fight. As American Revolutionary Thomas Paine is credited as saying, you can "lead, follow, or get out of the way". So, when you are at a crossroads, it's important to choose your path wisely.In this episode, I share just a sample of the challenges faced by my son, Kenny, and me. I also make suggestions based on the decisions we made that had successful outcomes. So, as my wife Celia always says, keep what you like, and leave the rest.Don't forget to to visit our website: https://muchmore2say.weebly.com/. You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

Dealing with adversity can prove quite challenging. Conditions aren't always perfect. We must learn how to adjust, adapt, deal with constant pressure. This is especially true for parenting. While we don't want our children to make the same mistakes we made, we want to encourage them to take chances. We want them to be able to overcome adversity to become the adults who make us proud! That's the gist of this episode.We are coming to the end of my run as host of this podcast. I will begin a new one this Fall where the focus will shift from my grievances to my burning desire to facilitate the good works of others. The show is titled "More Much to Say", and we I can't wait to get started!

The first steps to manhood typically begin with a game of catch in the backyard. This is when the father gets to be teacher to the son, who is a captive and engaged audience. In this episode, Ken lays out the underpinnings of the relationship he currently has with his son, Kenny. Using baseball as a backdrop, Kenny as been able to take the life lessons learned to raise his daughter. This series will stretch over the course of several episodes.

In this episode, Ken introduces you to his not quite obsession, baseball. From being a form of personal expression to it's use as a parenting, the sport has been an integral part of the lives of Ken and his son. In this, and future episodes, Ken will bring you the highs and lows of America's Pastime in it's roles of friend, teacher, and lifelong companion.

Golf and stamp collecting are typical hobbies taken up by retirees. I'm looking for a cause to take up. Or maybe several causes. This episode is the first brainstorming session of the DMMG post-retirement committee. More to follow in future episodes.We just started a new blog with bi-weekly posts published on Mondays. Check is out at: https://muchmore2say.weebly.com/

Today marks the first day of my retirement! That doesn't mean that I'll stop working. I am cutting back on the number of "From Grievance to Gratitude" episodes I'll produce. That's because I'm moving from a self-centered focus to one where I put others first, which is the theme of this and future episodes. Also, be on the lookout for more podcast shows from the Descant Music & Media Group!

Retirement is not for the faint of heart. Especially for a diagnosed workaholic. In this episode of my podcast, I'll share with you the feelings I have about leaving the gig worker world to pursue the work that my higher power has for me.Please know that this will be the last weekly episode of my podcast. My next episode will be published on Wednesday, July 1, 2020.

Decades ago, a college professor of mine told me the steps to success were as follows - first you learn, then you serve, then you earn. At this point in my journey, I've done all three and am ready to take my ball and go home. I will take the scenic route... and I promise it won't be dull!

Welcome to Season 2! When I signed off on 04/27/2020, I thought this podcast was permanently shuttered. I even began posting episodes from my new podcast, "Freelancer Survival Stories". However, I discovered that this show still had relevance.Since my on survival story was still evolving, and I wanted to highlight the stories of others on my new show, it made sense to restart this show and use it as a vehicle to talk directly to you, my friends. It's great to be back!

This is the 35th and final episode of this podcast. I hope they were of some benefit. I know that recording them has helped me grow as a human being. I'm not getting out of the game, because I am in the process of creating an all new podcast, hopefully airing this June. Thanks and stay tuned!Thank you so much for being with me on this journey. I'm retiring the podcasts, but the blog lives on. If you enjoyed these podcast episodes, I invite you to check out my "From to Gratitude" weekly blog posts. Just go to my website at: https://grievance2gratitude.weebly.com/

With a cry of "let's reopen the government" getting louder, we've once again retreated to our own ideological corners. While this show is not a political one, my common sense compels me to suggest that we all use our common sense. If you trust science and medicine, stay indoors except for dealing with the necessities. If you believe in certain political leaders, "go with God" and good luck. But please do us all a favor... be considerate and wear the proper protection. We don't want to catch watch you've got!If you enjoy these podcast episodes, I invite you to check out my "From to Gratitude" weekly blog posts. Just go to my website at: https://grievance2gratitude.weebly.com/

In times of hardship, many people have a tendency to be governed by fear. Fear of not getting what you want. Also, fear of losing what you have. We are currently living under a cloud of uncertainty.It is during challenging times that our true character comes to the forefront. We can have all the degrees in the world, the corner office, the summer home, etc. Those thing are nice, but are potentially fleeting.How do we behave in times of crises. Do we panic? Or do we trick ourselves into thinking that our thoughts, feelings, and ideas are the only ones that matter?The solutions may come from unlikely people and places. They may also be right in front of our eyes. Let's stay calm, keep fear in check, and know the value of free advice. It's sometimes the most valuable!If you enjoy these podcast episodes, I invite you to check out my "From to Gratitude" weekly blog posts. Just go to my website at: https://grievance2gratitude.weebly.com/

The medical experts strongly advise that all but non-essential workers stay indoors. We can do that. While waiting for the test results to arrive (they came back negative), we were told to act as if we had the virus, which meant quarantining apart. Now that presented a unique challenge. We've been inseparable since the day we met, and we hesitated to be apart.This episode is dedicated to couples who maintain close bonds through good times and bad. Be strong, have faith, believe in the God-Given knowledge imparted on the doctors and scientists! We humans are a strong species. We have to be because the rest of the world is depending on us!If you enjoy these podcast episodes, I invite you to check out my "From to Gratitude" weekly blog posts. Just go to my website at: https://grievance2gratitude.weebly.com/

The "Shelter-in-Place" order is in effect in many communities across the country, including ours. The pandemic is paralyzing people with fear. All we want are answers and assurances that we will be OK. There are things we can control, and things that we can't. All we can do is maintain a positive outlook and pray for the wisdom to know the difference between what we can and can't control!If you enjoy these podcast episodes, I invite you to check out my "From to Gratitude" weekly blog posts. Just go to my website at: https://grievance2gratitude.weebly.com/

We're living in uncertain times. It seems like we're getting our heads around the risks of COVID-19, aka Coronavirus. Diagnosis, treatment, and hopefully cure, are the great mysteries.I'm devoting this episode, and possibly future episodes, to sharing as much reliable information that I can with you. At the very least, I will share hope and encouragement. Reach out to me on my website in order to continue the conversation. God bless!If you enjoy these podcast episodes, I invite you to check out my "From to Gratitude" weekly blog posts. Just go to my website at: https://grievance2gratitude.weebly.com/

My son's former baseball coach used to always say, "piss-poor practice promotes piss-poor performance". Because I have an aversion to practice (running scales, rehearsing speeches, and the like, I guess that means that I'm just out of luck.Instead of throwing in the towel, I looked at my training methods through a fresh set of lenses. I learned that, as the old saying goes, "there's more than one way to scramble an egg". And my method of learning and mastering is a legitimate as the next guy's!If you enjoy these podcast episodes, I invite you to check out my "From to Gratitude" weekly blog posts. Just go to my website at: https://grievance2gratitude.weebly.com/

It's a time for celebration at the Descant Music & Media. Celia Boone and Angel Snipes are back making great podcast episodes, and plans are underway to resume our programming expansion efforts.The picture wasn't always this rosy. Over the past six months, health woes had taken their toll on our entire production catalog. If not for a number of well-timed miracles, we may have ceased to exist. But here we are, celebrating the 75th podcast episode produced by Descant Music & Meia Group!If you enjoy these podcast episodes, I invite you to check out my "From to Gratitude" weekly blog posts. Just go to my website at: https://grievance2gratitude.weebly.com/

When most people reach a fork in the road, they need to determine the path forward. For me, it means that I'm lost! And when I get lost, the solution is always to retrace my steps. From bad habits, to destructive vices, and to a recent health scare, the way out was always to slow down, take a step back, and remember the steps I took in the past to achieve success. I also looked at the part I played and what actions I would take to clean the crap up!If you enjoy these podcast episodes, I invite you to check out my "From to Gratitude" weekly blog posts. Just go to my website at: https://grievance2gratitude.weebly.com/

My authentic voice is the result of lifelong years of learning, experimentation, and failure. If used correctly, it is a powerful tool to use on my path to self-actualization. If used wrong, it can be used to bludgeon my fellow manly cruely and unfairly. The secret to getting it right is to use good judgment and discretion... with a dose of kindness.If you enjoy these podcast episodes, I invite you to check out my "From to Gratitude" weekly blog posts. Just go to my website at: https://grievance2gratitude.weebly.com/

Since this is my 25th solo podcast episode, I thought it would be a good idea to take stock of past performances. While I've been making slow, yet steady progress, I've still got quite a ways to go before I reached a level of competence that I can be proud of. The key ingredient to achieving the success I want is to read anything and everything I can get my hands on. Since I'm a former bookworm, that shouldn't be too tough a task. Or, will it? Only time will tell!If you enjoy these podcast episodes, I invite you to check out my weekly "From Grievance to Gratitude" blog posts. Just go our my website at: https://grievance2gratitude.weebly.com/

The episodes may not be getting better, but I'm definitely more honest about what I'm doing here. I talk a little bit about loneliness for people in the AARP class. Expect more about this in further episodes. As my list of grievances continues to shrink, I do need to fill this space with other, better, content. Thanks for tuning in!

With my health rapidly returning to normalcy, I'm pursuing my life's dreams with new-found vigor! Not spending too much time worrying about the past, I do vow not to repeat past mistakes. In the words of my wife, Celia, from now on I'll "make my mess my message"!

The road from grievance to gratitude has a number of off ramps. The longer you stay on the road, the more difficult it is not to get "dinged". The earlier you exit, the easier it is for you to get to a place of victory without expending too much of yourself. The trick is to be learn about your power to control your ability to rise up that 8th time!

This Monday I celebrated another birthday! How did I mark the occasion? By undergoing an echocardiogram. And I'd do it again in a literal heartbeat, because a healthy life is everything. On another note, new episodes of "In Search of Peace and Healing" and "Can I Say Something" are in the works, so stay tuned.

Welcome to the 20th episode of the "From Grievance to Gratitude" podcast! Over the course of time and self-reflection, I've noticed that the grievances are more like regrets. That change in perspective makes it much easier to address the issues that we all face. Give it a try. Look in the mirror. Work on the solution!

New year, new me? In this first episode of 2020, I want to focus on the things in my life that make me smile. Realizing that, at my core, I'm a person filled with great joy, I want to use the rest of my allotted days to spread this joy. Since the show title references grievances, they will remain, with a twist. I'll stress my part in these slights, along with the steps I've taken to overcome and thrive!

As we approach the end of the year (2019), we at Descant Music & Media Group look back at the challenges we faced during the preceding 12 months. We also would like to express our gratitude for emerging intact and ready to face a new year. We look forward to bringing you quality podcast episodes in 2020. We are also excited about expanding our blogs and venturing into video content. So here's to wishing you a Happy New Year! Thanks and God Bless!

With a heavy heart, I record and dedicate this episode to a couple of important people from my happy past (Sis. Gibson and Ronnie). Pray for their families.

Everyone can make a contribution to the good. You don't have to take center stage to make a difference. For well over fifty years, I've been making my presence felt, one small step at time.If you like this podcast, don't forget to check out my log posts published each Monday morning. The posts can be found at: https://grievance2gratitude.weebly.com

Doing the thing you love doing, even if you have to do it for free. I feel that everyone needs some kind of side hustle, if only to maintain our equilibrium!If you like this podcast, don't forget to check out my blog posts published eah Monday morning. The posts can be found at: https://grievance2gratitude.weebly.com/

Why lie when the truth is more entertaining? The answer can be tricky. Celia and I first met face-to-face in a Starbucks, not the Billy Graham Library. Although we are frequent customers in many of the other stores in that strip mall, we've never been back in that coffee shop. Do we consider it a shrine? No one knows.If you like this podcast, check out my blog posts published each Monday and can be found at: www.grievance2gratitude.weebly.com

Have your best efforts reach the point of diminishing returns? For every step forward, you end up taking two, or sometimes, three steps back? If so, maybe you are just exhausted and are in need of someone you can pass the baton to for a little while. Someone who can simply vouch for you.If you like this podcast, check out my blog posts posted Each Monday and can be found at: www.grievance2gratitude.weebly.com

When give and take becomes one-sided, you begin to feel like a pushover. This episode is the conclusion of a previous blog post of mine where I share my frustrations over feeling taken advantage of. However, the silver lining is that our acts of kindness, just like forgiveness, is to benefits ourselves, not others!If you like this episode, check out my blog posts. New posts are published every Monday and can be found at: www.grievance2gratitude.weebly.com

If we're not careful, we can find ourselves adopting an inflated sense of entitlement. We expect to have praise lavished upon us, even when that praise is underserved.My wife, Celia, reinforced the notion that it costs very little to say a kind word of encouragement to someone. Even when the sentiments are not reciprocated. Following her lead has made me a better man!If you like this episode, check out my blog posts. New posts are published every Monday and can be found at: https://grievance2gratitude.weebly.com

Inclusion is one of the cornerstones of the mission at Descant Music & Media Group. In this episode, Ken highlights examples of how cooperation and inclusion can make a huge difference between success and failure. Fresh perspectives come together and synergy begins to take hold of the creative process!If you like this podcast, check out Ken's blog posts. New posts are published every Monday and can be found at: https://grievance2gratitude.weebly.com

Converting the converted. Making believers out of those who already believe. Preaching to the choir. I always thought that people who said those things were really saying "shut up" in a polite way.From time to time, we really do need to preach to the choir, because it's how our support system stays connected.Self absorption vs. audience engagement is sometimes the difference between success and failure for us musicians, artists, actors, etc. Something to bear in mind as we pursue and perfect our crafts.If you like this podcast, check out Ken's weekly blog posts. New posts are published every Monday and can be found at: https://grievance2gratitude.weebly.com

For those like me who suffer from "Attention-Seeking/Pleaser Syndrome", we find that we have problems with simple math. What I mean is that if, out of 100 people, we make a positive connection with 99, we tend to break our necks trying to win over that one.This episode will provide you with some valuable coping skills in your quest to attain a sense of validate, using the simplest of math.If you like this episode, check out Ken's weekly blog posts. New posts are published every Monday and can be found at: https://grievance2gratitude.weebly.com

Our gut keeps us out of trouble. Our gut tells us we are valid. Our gut is God's way of speaking to us. Trust your gut - it will rarely steer you wrong.With that said, we are better equipped to deal with a formidable opponent - The Hater. In this episode, we begin the process of identifying them, because initially they're not easy to spot. What are their tells? Why do they do what they do? How do we deal with them?If you like this episode, check out Ken's weekly blog posts. New posts are published every Monday and can be found at: https://grievance2gratitude.weebly.com

You play by the rules, but can't seem to catch a break. Until you realize that someone has their thumb on the scale. The game is rigged. The fix is in. So, what do you do? Quit? Quitters never win. You play through and come out much stronger on the other side.Check out Ken's "From Grievance to Gratitude" blog post, which is published every Monday. You can find it at: https://grievance2gratitude.weebly.com

All you need is curiosity and a library card to be an autodidact. What's an autodidact? A self-taught person. But even if you fall into that select category of people, getting help along the way is always a good thing.Host and self-proclaimed autodidact, Ken Boone, will use this episode to thank some of the many people who have helped to teach this so-called self-learner.You can also check out Ken's weekly blog posts. New posts are published every Monday and can be found at: https://grievance2gratitude.weebly.com/

Don't judge a book by it's cover. You've heard that one before. Relationships are formed, and sometimes malformed, by first impressions. In this episode, Ken recalls some experiences in his life when he was marginalized based on a perceived lack of status. He also recalls those wonderful moments in his life when he was judged solely on the content of his character. Can you relate? Listen on...You can also check out Ken's weekly blog posts. New posts are published every Monday and can be found at: https://grievance2gratitude.weebly.com/

In this, the third episode of his podcast, Ken introduces a number of topics that will be revisited throughout the duration of this show. He will address areas near and dear to him, such as fatherhood, music business basics, and expectation management. He also presents avenues of engagement with his growing audience, as he raises tongue-in-cheek complaints about the lack of love from a giant social media platform. Please note, any perceive slights will not deter the mission and ministry of the Descant Music & Media Group.You can also check out Ken's weekly blog posts. New posts are published every Monday and can be found at: https://grievance2gratitude.weebly.com/

With this show still coming into focus, host Ken Boone begins the process of merging his weekly blog posts with other aspects of Descant Music & Media Group. He sheds light on the upcoming episodes of "ISO Peace & Healing w/Celia Boone" as well as "Can I Say Something w/Angel". This episode also serves as a preview to client Disability:IN North Carolina's 2019 Thought Leaders Luncheon, which takes place Thursday 05/16/2019 in on the MetLife campus in Cary, NC.You can also check out Ken's weekly blog posts. New posts are published every Monday and can be found at: https://grievance2gratitude.weebly.com/

Your journey starts with one step. If you stumble and fall, encouragement and a helping hand give you the will to persevere. In his debut podcast episode, Ken begins to lay out his theory of appreciating the value of a closed door, or an unanswered prayer. As a lifelong advocate for the underdog, Ken is finally putting word to deed and, along with his weekly blog posts, proclaims that everyone has someone in their corner.You can also check out Ken's weekly blog posts. New posts are published every Monday and can be found at: https://grievance2gratitude.weebly.com/