The Finney School of Real Life

The American economic system of capitalism is unique in the industrialized world. Forms of capitalism exist in many countries, and the one general statement that applies to its usage is that capitalist countries are always more prosperous than non-capitalist states. That being stated, why is American capitalism so advanced, successful, admired and feared?

We all know that America offers the most dynamic advanced economy in the world. Brands such as Coca-Cola, McDonalds, Estee Lauder, IBM, MicroSoft, Kentucky Fried Chicken and hundreds more are badges of the amazing success of the American model in achieving worldwide prominence. Each of these enterprises were born of entrepreneurial roots, grown with care, and gracefully matured into powerful engines of profit. Other countries can proudly point to their own corporate successes (Finland and Nokia, France and Schlumberger, Chanel, Ireland and Waterford, etc.) No country, however, sports the depth and variety of colossal world brands as the United States.

So what accounts for the amazing growth and breadth of successful American enterprises in a very competitive global marketplace? And, what makes the American field of play so different and compelling as a job, profit and opportunity generator? There are many reasons that can explain parts of the template for success. However, an alpha element is that the United States system does not permanently cripple an entrepreneur who has experienced failure, even several failures.

Many successful entrepreneurs, while enjoying the fruits of their successful efforts, have also suffered the agony of failure. The American model does not insure the right to succeed, jut the right to try. This is not true in most other capitalist countries. Failure is not an option. Barriers to entry are high. Taxes, fees, regulations and restrictive covenants are almost universally more difficult than in America.

The opportunity to fail is not something that any entrepreneur initially considers as an asset. However, it must be considered that most new enterprises do not succeed. Business closings and bankruptcy is very high for new enterprises. Many entrepreneurs, having suffered the disappointment of failure, simply move on and look for a regular source of income. Real entrepreneurs will not give up. They have the genetic makeup necessary for any entrepreneur to succeed. They will keep trying.

I can attest to the difficulty of being an entrepreneur in other capitalist countries. I have started businesses in England, France, Sweden and Spain. When seeking to organize in these capitalist (to a varying degree) countries I was amazed at how difficult it was to satisfy the state. Upon reflection, exploring and experiencing the vagaries of these bureaucracies, I discovered a blunt answer for the very high real costs to enter a new business: these states use extreme hurdles to minimize the chance for failure.

Fortunately it is just the opposite here in America. Small business incubators, regional business development centers, university entrepreneurial programs and mentoring organizations encourage the attempt to create opportunity for new enterprises. The result is a wildly vigorous stream of new product, invention, service and enterprise seeking to capitalize on the American economy’s vigor and need for constant sources of growth. All of this occurs while the risk of failure remains daunting for new start-ups.

The growth of the American economy can be attributed to the constant stream of small companies supplying ingenuity, new products and rapidly growing sales and income streams. Virtually no new jobs have been added in Europe over the past two decades. In 2005, America generated over two million new jobs alone.

Growth of the United States economy is not being driven by the mature multi-national companies associated with prosperity in the past. IBM, GE, General Motors, Delta, Delphi, and dozens of other formerly powerhouse firms are downsizing, firing employees and trying to re-invigorate their static business models. The growth of thousands of small businesses entering this vibrant marketplace is the real generator of growth, jobs and profits. The reality that many fail and a few succeed is the strength of the system.

The high barriers to entry applied by so many of our capitalist competitors minimizes their ability to be creative, innovate and take appropriate risk/reward decisions in this brutally competitive global market. This attempt to insure success is actually the death knell of real opportunity.

Geoff Ficke has been a serial entrepreneur for almost 50 years. As a small boy, earning his spending money doing odd jobs in the neighborhood, he learned the value of selling himself, offering service and value for money.

After putting himself through the University of Kentucky (B.A. Broadcast Journalism, 1969) and serving in the United States Marine Corp, Mr. Ficke commenced a career in the cosmetic industry. After rising to National Sales Manager for Vidal Sassoon Hair Care at age 28, he then launched a number of ventures, including Rubigo Cosmetics, Parfums Pierre Wulff Paris, Le Bain Couture and Fashion Fragrance.

Mr. Ficke and his consulting firm, Duquesa Marketing, Inc. (http://www.duquesamarketing.com) has assisted businesses large and small, domestic and international, entrepreneurs, inventors and students in new product development, capital formation, licensing, marketing, sales and business plans and successful implementation of his customized strategies. He is a Senior Fellow at the Page Center for Entrepreneurial Studies, Business School, Miami University, Oxford, Ohio

Windsor Castle is believed to be the largest colonised castles around just now and the oldest in nonstop inhabitation (about 900 years). It’s 1 of Queen Elizabeth’s 3 sanctioned homes, and is regularly said to be her outright most favourite home. The Royal colours flutters over the Round Tower of Windsor Castle at whatever time Queen Elizabeth 2 is at the palace - nevertheless, at alternative periods, the Union Jack banner flutters in its position.

Samuel Pepys once stated the Castle to be “the most idealistic castle around.” That was alleged in 1666, & the same is true even today.

Windsor Castle Stirring History:

The erection of Windsor can be found in the beginning of the seventh century Saxon hamlet of Windlesora, where the contemporary day parish of Old Windsor is. The settlement of Windsor is correctly branded as the “New Windsor” - the word “new” being taken in a loose way! Enjoy England has many great places to visit. Windsor castle is no exception.

Windsor Castle was formally constructed by the famed William the Conqueror, following his assault of England in ten sixty-six. The original construction was put together from wood with ground defences. Windsor Castle held a clear tactical position on a tall mound above the River Thames, & was a division of an assortment of strongholds around the City, with the Tower of London, one day’s trip away, at its heart.

The Castle was then later rebuilt in rock, & grew in worth over the following centuries. In recent times Henry 2nd constructed the Round Tower and the original stone outer wall. Following the English Civil War, the structure’s key role became that of a royal residence. The Castle has remained mostly unbothered ever since the early nineteenth century, apart from the refurbishment job straight after the tragic fire in 1992.

When it comes to choosing a hotel for your vacation, it often becomes an issue of low cost and convenient location. More often than not, particularly when traveling to major tourist areas with popular attractions, the closer the lodging is to the destination or attraction, the more expensive it will be. That is why the best way to save money on lodging is to stay in an outlying area.

Unfortunately, this might mean that you will spend more time driving to your destinations, which inevitably means more money spent on gasoline. It is important to asses all of the factors in order to make sure that staying in more distant hotel will really cost you less money.

There are several ways to save money on lodging without compromising the quality of your accommodations. For example, paying for a membership in AAA or a similar auto club also provides you with discounts on hotel rooms, as does being a member of the military or being a senior citizen. When booking a hotel room, make sure you ask about discounts that may be available.

Another tip for finding lower cost lodging is to try shopping early for your hotel room. Often, hotels will reserve a block of lower-priced rooms, available on a first come, first serve basis. Getting the best lodging deal is often based on timing and planning ahead.

Saving money on a hotel room means next to nothing if the place is a pigsty, or unsafe. Shopping for a budget hotel does not mean you have to settle for a hotel that is dirty, poorly run or in a dangerous area.

Fortunately, the Internet makes it so easy to find great deals on quality budget hotels. The Internet cuts the time it takes to research lodging down to a fraction of what it used to take. Most hotels, even budget properties, have websites and feature photos of the property, rooms, and the surrounding area. It has never been easier to research the lodging that you are considering, especially if you have never stayed there before.

Don’t forget to research the area in which the hotel is located also. Be sure to check out things like restaurants and attractions within walking distance of the hotel. Amenities, especially on vacation, are important.

On the Internet there are a number of review sites available where those who have stayed in various hotels can share their experiences and their opinions of the hotels. These review sites are invaluable for travelers, especially if you are going to a place for the first time.

In addition, the Internet hosts a number of travel web sites where travelers and tourists can locate and compare lodging based on their particular need, such as for their individual dates of stay and destinations. These web sites provide several ways to search, including distance from an attraction, price, and star level. The only thing that you need to bear in mind when using such a web site is that comparison web sites only showcase properties that pay a fee, so using a particular site does not necessarily ensure the best price for your trip. For locating the best deals online, it is best to refer to several web sites in order to get a real idea of the lowest prices available.

If you would like more information on the best hotel deals visit www.budget-travel-secrets.info

Indian Garden is where the riders who are overnighting at Phantom Ranch separate from the day riders and embark on their own private adventure. Although they have now come half the distance from the South Rim to Phantom Ranch, a quick look back up at the rim will verifiy that they have descended two thirds of the total altitude change from the mule corral to the canyon bottom. Most of them will take more than a quick look, however, because from Indian Garden it is difficult to see how that canyon wall could possibly be traveled. But they did it, and they will all feel some degree of pride in their accomplishment. The hard part is over.

The gently sloping trail now follows Garden Creek as it wanders down its narrow channel toward the canyon bottom. It is picture postcard beautiful. The cottonwood and willow trees, the lush riparian vegetation, and the peaceful sound of crystal clear flowing water give them the feeling that a new world has been entered. Considering themselves advanced beyond novice rider status by now, they are secure and comfortable in the saddle and most of the them will truly relax and enjoy the ride. Whereas it is common to see bighorn sheep at the top of the trail in the morning, deer are what they are likely to see down here. Being unaccustomed to any threat from humans, the animals in the canyon will simply glance up and then go on about their business. This will be a photo opp for those riders who have never before seen a deer in the wild.

They will all be looking to the left as Garden Creek separates itself from the trail, tumbling rapidly downward and disappearing quickly into a small rocky gorge. As they pass, their attention will again focus forward and it will be mere seconds before they realize that there is nothing but open air in front of them. Hello Devil’s Corkscrew! As they round a sharp bend they will find themselves on the side of a canyon wall, on a narrow ledge, staring down a near vertical drop-off to the valley floor. A valley floor which everyone of them will say is at least a thousand feet below, in a canyon which would be impressive in its own right anywhere but here. A degree of anxiety will return and some will later recall this as the most frightening part of the entire trail. Even Garden Creek had the good sense to detour before it came to this.

At the bottom of Devil’s Corkscrew they will find friendlier ground, again following along the creek as it gently slopes toward its final approach to the river. The wrangler will probably verify that the Colorado River is not far ahead and comfort them with the assurance that the trail plans no more devilish surprises. A few general comments will be heard and they will relax again, now the hard part is over.

The Bright Angel Trail breaks through a small gorge and affords its first view of the Colorado River only when they are literally at the river. There it is, right in front of them. Most of the riders will think it is bigger than it looked in the pictures. All of them will be awed at the energy and power it emanates, and this will be the high point in some memories. As they turn to amble along the comfortable River Trail at the water’s edge, if they hadn’t realized it before, they will now, this is the ride of their life.

Suddenly, exclamations will be heard from the riders in front as the trail rounds a knoll. The Silver Bridge across the river can be seen in the distance, stretching from canyon wall to canyon wall. It is a long, high suspension bridge, and some will probably wonder how they could ever build it in such a remote location. They know this isn’t their route, but they can’t help but say something when they first see it. As they approach the bridge, it is even longer and taller than it first looked, and the large steel mesh floor allows the river torrent to be seen clearly beneath one’s feet. Woof ! A long ways beneath one’s feet! As they file by the end of the bridge, most will be glad they are not crossing the river here, but now the more forward thinking riders will be wondering what the next bridge has to offer, and may even ask their wrangler as much.

As they continue to follow the River Trail to the bridge on the Kaibab Trail, they will begin to realize that they are climbing back up, and that once again the trail has become a narrow ledge on the side of a solid rock canyon wall with a vertical drop that is difficult to ignore. While it may be only a few hundred feet to the bottom this time, the sights and sounds of the powerful Colorado River directly below them add yet another sensation to be remembered.

As they approach the dark entrance to the tunnel, it more resembles a cave than a passage through the rock. Like a giant tube, it curves around just enough to obscure visible light from the other end. Somebody will probably make scary noises in the dim tunnel. The other end of the tunnel is a vertical rock wall with the Kaibab Bridge connected directly to it. One step on the solid rock tunnel floor, the next step on the suspended bridge, with the river directly below them. A long way below them. Is there no end to this adventure? At least this bridge has solid matting on the floor, which comforts mules and riders alike.

Now the hard part really is over. Historic and rustic Phantom Ranch awaits them just up the trail in yet another cozy, cottonwood shaded oasis. After dismounting, the cantina will be the first place the riders hobble to. The cantina is comfortable and inviting and, after they check in, they will sip on cold drinks and begin to share their impressive recollections. These will be private exchanges and they will be quite certain that no outsider could fully appreciate their descriptions. But no matter the beauty they have seen or the magnitude of their adventure, they will be happy to get out of the saddle. Some will probably already be concerned about the probability of discomfort in the morning, on the long ride out of the canyon. It won’t be as bad as they may fear.

Phantom Ranch is nestled in a small draw on the North side of the Colorado River, where the Bright Angel Creek has decided to join the big river . The people are friendly, the food is excellent, and the beds are conducive to deep sleep. The wake up call will come too early for most, but their excitement will begin to rekindle as they step out into the cool morning air. If they can resist overeating the five star breakfast provided to them in the cantina, they will be cheerful and ready for whatever comes. The nervous exuberance of yesterday will be absent today, they are old hands now. When they arrive at the mule corral, few of them will realize that the wrangler has been at work since before daylight rounding up, feeding, and saddling the mules. There will be a few comments as their backsides hit the saddle, but their enthusiasm is again high .

Back across the Kaibab Bridge, back through the tunnel, past the River Trail cutoff, and out of the secluded lower canyon river gorge they climb. Riding uphill is different than riding downhill and most of the riders will find it easier. The red clay trail spirals up steeply in the shade of the early morning, as if to escape the perils of the river as soon as possible. Even so, as the riders will now trust their equestrian skills, it will be a quiet ride up this section of the trail to the rest stop on the edge of the first plateau. From here on, however, the Kaibab Trail will offer a completely unique and superior viewing experience. They are entering camera country.

With the trail now traveling along ridge tops most of the way, the views available to the riders will make them feel that they are on top of the world. Every day, even every hour of the day, the hues and tints across the vast canyon can change. The distant earthtones and pastel colors will transform as they climb, always masking the true rugged nature of the canyon. Each time the trail brings them to a higher plateau, the panoramic vistas are almost indescribable. Each time the river comes into view, it will be farther down and once more begin to resemble a painting rather than reality. The magnitude of the canyon will come back into focus and they will marvel aloud that, only a few hours ago, they were a part of that painting.

It is a near certainty that some of the hikers they pass will be physically stressed. The Kaibab Trail is shorter than the Bright Angel Trail and has more elevation gain. Being steeper, having no fresh water sources, and having precious few shaded rest areas usually catches the uneducated by surprise. They have found that the canyon caters to no one. By now, the riders will be taking for granted the strength, endurance, and trustworthiness of the animals they are riding. The sight of struggling hikers may remind them of their good fortune and prompt a few friendly expressions of gratitude to the mule that has become their friend. A friend who will be indelible in their memories.

As they approach the South Rim near Yaki Point, they will again be tired and somewhat subdued. Overall, the ride today has been quieter and more serene than yesterday. Then, one last time, the canyon will remind them of its superiority, just before it releases them. Near the top, the trail will again force them through a series of switchbacks, climbing steeply up the seemingly vertical rock wall. Once again displaying the characteristics of height and distance which make this a recognized wonder of the world and which caused them so much anxiety yesterday.

One final reminder to them that this is The Grand Canyon. One final verification, as if they needed it, that they have experienced the ride of their life.

Danny Smith is an Arizona outdoorsman who writes from experience. See his latest project at www.natureglasses.com This article is free to use without permission, but must be used unedited, in its entirety. A courtesy notification to info@natureglasses.com would be appreciated.

Faded away are the days where the best outlet one would be able to buy ballet tickets would be the venue box office of the actual venue of the superb show that one were going to admire. There are now hundreds of different ways for one to acquire big sport game tickets without even trying to get up out of the peace and quiet of your very own house. Have a great night out with a theatre show and buy tickets online from Time Out.

Theatre tickets for mind-blowing artists such as Blue are nowadays becoming harder and harder to buy hold of. There are the heavy weight site like Timeout for which you can purchase amazing sports tickets for everything. Timeout is the most attractive approach to book tickets. The organisation simply acts as an agent selling the musical tickets which the client makes more for sale to them. One of the 1st ticketing companies to supply musical tickets on the www, Timeout now sell a plentiful percentage of its ballet tickets on the internet, some via telephone and a percentage via its numerous ticket retailers.

Ticket resale is the act of reselling concert tickets for entry to events. All this is of course more familiarly known as ticket touting. 2 will probably normally observe ticket touts based all around the event venue on the day of the show or sports starts. Be cautious when purchasing from a tout sometime they will often be selling stolen big sport game tickets that cannot buy one into the venue.

There is a redesigned service offering that is known as SMS tickets. This is a dirt cheap priced ticket service that delivers ballet tickets by text messaging (SMS) & print at home electronic tickets. Simply supply your SMS or print at home e-ticket to the event venue it can often then get scanned and you are in. You’re saved dosh by not ever being charged postage and packaging parcel costs, plus the pop concert booking costs are constantly kept cheap. There are tons of benefits to SMS tickets; you get the music ticket delivered to folk then and there, there’s no hanging all around for the postman or courier. One can get new sports tickets for free if one lose them and folk can get in fast, there is no waiting around for someone to manually tag the concert ticket.

Have you ever marveled that how fascinating it would be to explore and experience mesmerizing gifts of nature in the manner you had always desired? For instance many of us have a latent craving to feel the rude and unsympathetic rocks by trekking over them, conquer the snow capped peaks by brushing against the abandoned boisterous winds and swing in the lap of gushing ice cold water… A terrific idea to turn such smoldering dreams to reality is a trip to the remarkable Himalayan region. Himalayas are perhaps the most beautiful, mysterious, complacent and intrepid well-wishers of the countries they border. Standing firm at their place, these immobile yet gallant warriors are recognized globally for more than one reason. It is not just their scenic splendor that drives people crazy but the exotic activities in this region also magnetize people from all over the world.

The Himalayan region is thus a hub for incredible divinely aura and multitude of adventures. The foremost and most popular activity in the province of sky-scraping mountains is trekking. Trekking is an expression of human nature to attain heights despite of numerous odds. For many people it is a form of walking done to relish and survey the majestic beauty of hills and their surroundings.

The Himalayan region that invites trekkers from every corner of the world is a host to numerous ideal trekking spots. The Annapuma Trek in Nepal, Langtang Valley Trek in the Himalayan National Park and the Everest trek are the most admired ones. People opt for these sites according to their taste. All the treks have their own bewitching features that instigate you to move ahead while knowing them. Trekking is done in various styles. The Nepal Camping Trek and Nepal Tea House Style are quite dominant styles. The humble and cooperative sherpas (male residents in Himalayan region) are available to guide way and techniques to climbers.

The second thrilling activity in the Himalayan region after trekking, rock climbing and the like is white water rafting. Rafting is a wonderful way to play with water and swim across all the ups and downs in life with courage. The Himalayan county is endowed with perennial rivers such as Ganges, the sacred Indian river, the Alaknanda, Bhagirathi, Zanskar, Kali and the Tons.

The Ganges, particularly offers an enthralling rafting opportunity. The GIO’s Camp Rapid Descent is the rocking area for rafters. Its perfect location on sandy beaches acts as a vent to the traveler’s sporting spirit because games such as volleyball, rock climbing, swimming and kayaking can be enjoyed here. Fun and excitement never bids goodbye even on the shores of Alaknanda, Bhagirathi and the rest. The crystal clear water of these rivers is also a host to numerous swimmers.

Camping is even akin to an exciting and thrilling sport in the Himalayan expanse. It is a perfect style to experience the serenity enclosed by this region and also to fathom the district of bountiful mysteries with your family. Chail, Sangla Valley and Tabo are three ideal sites for camping. While Chail is known for attractions like Choor Chandni peak, apple orchards and deodar trees, Sangla Valley is popular as a luxury camping site and Tabo is frequently visited for the great Tabo Monastery therein.

Wild camping taken up here is also a form of camping that is basically a step towards an amicable relationship between human beings, wild animals and their habitats. This camping is quite informative and is an excellent way to teach love and respect for all living beings and environment.

All in all the world’s youngest and highest mountain ranges have something to contribute to each of its visitor’s lifetime memories.

Mansi aggarwal writes about himalayan trek Learn more at http://www.himalayantravelspots.com

The World Cup in Germany this summer is se tot be not only the biggest sporting event of the decade but also the biggest tourist draw in Europe this year. Berlin will be the centrepiece for this celebration of the beautiful game hosting the final and, as capital of Germany, the main host for the festivities.

Although the influx of tourists is set to be huge, Berlin is well geared up for the opening of the tournament. As one of Europe’s most popular city break destinations and the host for major annual events such as the Love Parade, Berlin is well used to throwing a party. Accommodation however will be thin on the ground in Berlin and anyone looking for a late deal will be struggling to find anything within the parameters of Berlin itself but some of the major hotel booking resellers may have some late availability on the outskirts of the city or surrounding towns.

For true football fans getting around Germany during the World Cup might be a troublesome affair. Although Germany has one of the most efficient public transport systems in the world, it is also the largest country in Europe and with the 12 host cities spread throughout the land mass, the transport system is set to be bursting at the seams. Renting a car might be the best option for those looking to explore further than Berlin or to use the capital as a base for following their teams’ fortunes in the tournament. Most of the major car rental firms have a presence in the city and the road network in the city itself and throughout the host cities makes car hire in Berlin and for World cup 2006 a valid option.

Berlin has garnered a reputation as a cultural and party capital since reunification in 1990. A steady influx of short break tourists have ensured that the city has the facilities and tourist infrastructure that one would expect of a major European city and Berlin certainly does not disappoint. There are some interesting towns surrounding the capital and for those exploring the region by car the contrast between east and west although eroded over the last 16 years is still just visible.

About the Author:

Michael Hanna is a keen writer, and internet marketer living in Scotland.

Contact details:
E-mail: samqam@googlemail.com
Phone: 0131 561 2251
Michael’s Website: Taxi Belfast Airport

Nestled into the heart of England,Herefordshire stretches from the beautiful Wye Valley with its dramatic cliff scenery to the remote hills along the Welsh Marches.Taking in rivers,small villages and stunning countryside on the way.

There are numerous places to visit including the cathedral city of Hereford,and the market towns of Bromyard,Kington and Ross On Wye. There are castles and stately homes ,hop yards and famous cider houses.The black and white village trail is always a favourite .

Herefordshire has many attractions and manages to mix the old with the new. Steeped in history ,yet also offering activities for the most adventurous visitor. Why not pop over the border into Wales for a day out.
Herefordshire is renowned for its cider, so take a visit to the factory and museum. Visit in June and go to the Three Counties Show in nearby Malvern, a large agricultural show with plenty to do for all the family.How about a shakespeare play within the walls of Ludlow Castle in June.You need to book tickets early for this festival.The food festival is also a must for any visitors to the region.

There is something for everyone here. Explore http://www.wyenot.com for places to visit.

For information on the area try http://www.thisisherefordshire.co.uk

Written by Adrienne Boxhall from http://www.weaccommodate.co.uk a worldwide holiday accommodation directory and home swaps.Check out the listings.

Ask a majority of adults what Christmas means to them, and they will most certainly say the birth of Jesus Christ. But did you know that Jesus Christ wasn’t even born on December 25? No one knows for sure when Jesus was really born, not even Biblical Scholars.

Did you know that the first three centuries of the Christian era Christians did not celebrate Christmas because they felt that celebrating birthdays was a pagan custom?

Many people will tell you today that Christmas is still a pagan custom simply because the idea of spending thousands of dollars and going into debt isn’t something to celebrate. How about decorating a pine tree with stuff, stringing popcorn on strings, receiving gifts from a bearded fat old man who comes strolling down the chimney? Where does Jesus fit into these customs?

Ask any child under the age of six and they will tell you that Christmas is about getting presents and Santa Claus coming down the chimney to deliver them toys, but only if they have been good. Parents have used the Santa fib for many years to get their children to behave while shopping and to get them to go to bed when they are told. If they have been naughty they can forget about Santa even coming to their house.

So why was December 25th chosen as the date to celebrate Christmas? According to the Collier’s Encyclopedia 1966 the choice of December 25th was influenced by the fact that on this day the Roman’s celebrated the feast of the Sun-god, and that the Saturnalia came at that time. Sun-god and Saturnalia?

Because of this pagan observance of the Sun-god by the Roman community, the Church took full advantage of this December 25th ritual and turned the people away from their Sun-god and made it a day to adore Christ the Lord.

My question is, do the children adore Christ the Lord, or Santa? Jesus doesn’t bring them any presents and he doesn’t come flying down the chimney every year either. In fact, they can’t even see Jesus except as a ceramic statue in a manger surrounded by some little sheep. I don’t think they adore that too much, what do you think?

Let’s suppose December 25th is the Birth of Jesus, where do all the presents, santa claus, reindeer, elf’s, and putting stuff on a tree fit into the Birth of our Lord and Savior? Through the years European customs and rituals have slowly wormed their way into the celebration of what is now called Christmas.

Christmas is celebrated around the globe a little different everywhere depending on where you live. But they all are based upon the same idea of gift giving and getting, putting stuff on a tree to make it look pretty, and santa coming down the chimney with a big red bag full of presents.

From what I have gathered in just the past several years, the biggest fans of Christmas are the retailers and the children, and in that order.

What do you think about this? If the “true” meaning of Christmas is celebrating the birth of Jesus then we should do something for Jesus, I mean it’s his birthday right? You wouldn’t give your Aunt Florence a bunch of presents if it were your husband’s birthday, would you?

Maybe we should try and be more like Jesus by helping a friend who is really in need, and giving up our presents, time and money and giving them to someone who is really in need of these things. I know this is what Jesus would want you to do and it’s his birthday.

Angie Lewis offers spiritual enlightenment tips for couples in marriage, and is the author of new release book JOURNEY ON THE ROADS LESS TRAVELED.

This unique book is about love, life, marriage, addiction, temptation, and understanding the power of spiritual awareness for your marriage.

In her book, Angie reveals her own journey of overcoming addiction and battling with her negative emotions that she allowed to embrace her life and marriage.

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Angie Lewis counsels couples and writes a monthly newsletter where she reveals her secrets on how YOU can stay happily married for life!

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http://www.heavenministries.com/

Athens is a huge, congested city and the local taxis are your main means of getting around. The average Athens tax ride is inexpensive, just bring your helmet.

Living on the Edge

I had just arrived in Athens with a couple who’ll remain nameless. [He’s now a respectable doctor and married to someone else.] My buddy, “John”, had a Greek friend who lived in town named Stavos. We were going to stay with him and explore Athens before heading to the islands.

Stavos had gone to college with us in California and more or less been raised there. After experiencing the finer points of higher education [fraternity parties, etc.], he and his brother had started a snowboard company in Athens. Who could possibly be buying snowboards in Greece? It turned out Stavos and his brother were selling them throughout Europe, not in Greece.

Anyway, Stavos collected us in a friend’s car and took us to his small studio. We decided to catch some winks and then head out for a night on the town. Thus, we would experience an Athens taxi ride for the first time.

Taxi driving is a competitive sport. I am convinced there is a World Cup of taxi driving and drivers practice on the streets of their location. San Francisco and New York taxi drivers are an elite group, while taking a taxi in France is a good way to see the Eiffel Tower while going the wrong way down a one-way street. In Athens, it was all about speed.

Being an idiot, I yelled out “shotgun” as the taxi pulled to the curb. I should’ve guessed my triumph wasn’t a good thing when Stavos just smiled. In we went and Stavos gave the driver our destination. For the next fifteen minutes, I feared for life itself. Mine and others.

Our driver was apparently convinced he would get a bonus if he beat a certain time. We peeled out at the curb and the race was on. Through the tight, winding streets of Athens we went. As is the nature of chaotic Athens, the roads are packed with cars, buses, people and very brave cyclist. Considering this an obstacle course, a driver whipped through the throngs at over 80 miles per hour. Most of the time was spent in the SLOW lane, where less cars were. I still have nightmares about the faces of cyclist staring at me as we passed them with maybe 5 inches to spare. Frozen pictures of terror. Throw in cars starting to pull out in the road and you have the white knuckle event of the year.

When we finally pulled up to the club, I started breathing again. As I pulled my hand off the handle on the door, I left impressions. Standing outside of the cab, Stavos asked me if I wanted to sit in the front on the way home and started laughing.

It took two drinks to calm my nerves. Come hell or high water, I was walking home.

Rick Chapo is with NomadJournals.com - makers of travel journals. Visit NomadJournalTrips.com to read more about travel to greece and Adventure Travel.