Weekly Messages

Many times people confuse Truth with Perspective. When we do this, we may start to think “truth” is subjective. That causes the problem that truth can change over time. That leads to thinking and acting because something “sounds” and “feels” right to you, then it must be true. 

Talent isn’t enough to succeed—hard work is the key. Don’t let your talent go to waste—give it everything you’ve got and create a legacy you’ll be proud of!

This message isn't just for those who already walk the path of faith—it’s for anyone who’s seeking deeper fulfillment and purpose in their daily life. You’ll find that the key to enjoying life, even when it seems out of control, is simpler and more beautiful than you might think.

It’s the little moments that make life BIG. This Grandparents Day, Cherish the memories, honor the love, and create new moments of joy together.

I have something truly important and incredibly exciting to share with you all today. I want to express my deepest love and appreciation for the amazing community we're building together. Yes, together. Seriously, it’s incredible! The heartfelt messages and thoughtful responses you've been sending our way have been nothing short of inspiring. Your words not only encourage us to keep moving forward but also reaffirm that so many of you are seeking a company, a place, a group that embodies and upholds the core values of God, family, country, and community. We're proud to stand alongside you in this shared mission. We're not your typical, ordinary, everyday chocolate and candy company that simply offers delicious treats for you to purchase. While we certainly take pride in crafting the finest, most exceptional products, our purpose goes far beyond satisfying sweet cravings. Each product we create is delivered with intentionality and a meaningful message that declares, "You are worthy. You are valuable." Have you ever noticed how a simple act of kindness can transform your entire day? That's why every person who walks through our doors is greeted with a warm smile and a joyful heart. We want each visit to be a reminder of your inherent value and dignity. In a world that often moves too fast, taking a moment to acknowledge and honor each other can make all the difference. Dignity—being worthy of honor, esteem, and respect—is something every person deserves. You hold immense value just as you are, regardless of your accomplishments, mistakes, victories, or setbacks. You were created on purpose, endowed with unique talents and gifts that belong solely to you. There's no one else in the world quite like you, and that's something to be proud, humble, and grateful for. But recognizing dignity isn't just about how we treat others; it's also about how we treat ourselves. Valuing others begins with valuing yourself and understanding your own worth. The strongest individuals recognize that they aren't the center of the universe, yet they carry a confident and secure sense of self-worth. This profound dignity empowers them to add value to others, creating a beautiful ripple effect of respect and appreciation. Imagine a world where everyone is led well and treated with the dignity they deserve. You and I have the power to be active participants in making this vision a reality. It starts with simple gestures—like that welcoming smile when someone enters our store—that acknowledge and honor the worth of those around us. Life can often feel overwhelming and complicated, with countless factors pulling us in different directions. Yet, by staying mindful of dignity and the truths we've shared, we can rediscover the beauty and simplicity that connect us all. Small acts rooted in respect and love can spark significant change, turning ordinary moments into opportunities for profound impact. Here’s a little inspiration for you: “Choose not to surrender to the adversity in your life! It’s not what happens to you. It’s what happens in you! DIGNITY!!!” – Michael J. Fox. These words remind us that our response to challenges defines our dignity. When we face adversity with grace and self-respect, we not only uplift ourselves but also inspire those around us. People often ask, "Why did you and Mike step outside your traditional professional paths to start a chocolate and candy gifting company?" The answer is simple: we believe that the most effective solutions are often the simplest ones. Great change doesn't always require a grand push; sometimes, it begins with a spark—a sweet and intentional gift that brings joy and recognition to someone's day. Our goal has always been to make it easy, simple, and encouraging for our community to acknowledge and celebrate the people around them. We aspire to be a catalyst for greater joy and success, one delightful treat and heartfelt interaction at a time. With heartfelt appreciation, Brock & The Dulci Sweets Family P.S. We are a Purpose-Driven, God-Fearing, American-Loving company that proudly serves people who love extraordinary chocolate and candy classics. We’re here to help you show the people around you that they are worthy, valued, and loved. Let’s keep building this amazing community together!

It is fairly easy to be a realist, but can you be a dreamer or a visionary?  Stated in a different way, it’s easy to look at a person and simply see them as they are, but we could look at others and see them as their best. You’ve most likely have heard the analogy using the thermometer and the thermostat. The former measures temperature. The latter measures and adjust temperature to reach a desired level.  In other words, the thermometer tells you what is, while the thermostat tells you what’s possible.  The thermometer represents the here and now and is purely reflective of the current surroundings. It’s black and white in its function. However, the thermostat represents a possible future. It’s proactive and influential. It believes the environment is not fixed and can change.  Think of the thermometer as the realist. Yes, being realistic is of value, but it’s easy to point out what is, isn’t it? Pretty much anyone can be a realist. Just look at the facts, read the balance sheet, look at the scoreboard, etc.  Now think of the thermostat as a dreamer or visionary. One that says, yes, I see what is, but I also see what could be.  Today, I would like to take that representation and encourage you to apply it to people, including yourself.  If you are a parent, a leader, or anyone that wants to positively influence the people around you, which approach and attitude do you think would be most effective?  What if you choose to see them at their best and nothing less? To do this, John Maxwell suggests to place a “10” on the head of everyone you meet. Doing so places greater attention and focus on maximizing potential rather than placing a lid on it.  One might ask, “are we just pretending that things are better than they actually are?” No, we are helping to change things into what they can become. That’s what really good leaders do – they ultimately make those around them better. Of course, that person must be open and willing to do the same. Be teachable, willing to learn and work to raise their level. Seeing the best and what is possible is an approach and perspective that can influence positive outcomes and change if needed.   German Philosopher Johann Wolfgang von Goethe said "If you treat a person as he is, you make him worse. But if you treat him as if he were what he ought to be and could be, you help him to become what he is capable of being"  We should all choose to be a thermostat for the people in our lives, including ourself. Quit being short-sighted and a harsh critic. I’m literally repeating that to myself this very moment.😬 Become a cheerleader for them and ourselves. Aim high for the best you can be and expect to hit it.  Imagine the changes we all could influence and be part of if we decided to see the good and better in people. No limits or lids, but potential and possibilities.  Do this for the next week. Encourage your kids heading back to school to join you. I bet you’ll be wonderfully surprised and happy you did.  Always Cheering for you, Brock  P.S. We so much appreciate you being part of this movement – Goodness Created to be shared. Please pass this message along to the people you know and feel they’d benefit from reading it too.  P.S.S. Be sure to check out the perfect treat that will surely help sweeten your Back-to-school routine. 

Have you ever felt like you were in a race where the finish line seemed to vanish before your eyes? Or maybe you’ve experienced that nagging feeling of being left behind while everyone else seems to sprint ahead? Trust me, we’ve all been there. But let me tell you something: there are countless reasons why you absolutely must run your race, even when the going gets tough. To know this truth, you only had to watch the Olympics the past two weeks. WOW! Team U.S.A. excelled and represented exceptionally well.  Please tell me you watched the Olympics the past two weeks. Seriously, if you didn’t, you missed some of the most electrifying moments that epitomize life’s trials and triumphs! Team U.S.A. showcased incredible talent and spirit, reminding us all of the power of endurance and commitment. Just look at Cole Hocker in the 1,500-meter race! He was a 21-to-1 longshot, but he turned the tables on everyone, taking gold in a stunning upset. How did he do it? Well, sometimes, flying under the radar can be your secret weapon! No matter past performances or predictions, nothing in life is guaranteed. If Cole had let the hype about his competitors, Jakob Ingebrigtsen from Norway (defending Olympic gold medalist) and Josh Kerr of Great Britain (2023 World Champion), shake his confidence, he might have stayed in the background. Instead, he focused on what he could do, staying humble while believing in himself. So, why not apply that mindset to your own life? Whether it’s in your career, personal goals, or relationships, remember that you have the power to define your race, regardless of what others might think. If Cole had let the hype about his competitors, Jakob Ingebrigtsen from Norway (defending Olympic gold medalist) and Josh Kerr of Great Britain (2023 World Champion), shake his confidence, he might have stayed in the background. Instead, he focused on what he could do, staying humble while believing in himself. So, why not apply that mindset to your own life? Whether it’s in your career, personal goals, or relationships, remember that you have the power to define your race, regardless of what others might think. Belief is absolutely huge, but let’s talk about putting in the work. Hocker didn’t just stumble into that gold medal. He committed to his goal and wrote it down, repeating it to himself, even on days when doubt crept in. How often do we give up on our dreams just because they seem out of reach? Trust me, I’ve been guilty of that. But when you put in the effort and stay focused, amazing things can happen. Ephesians 3:20-21 tells us that “God is able to do far more than we could ever ask for or imagine.” How empowering is that? It means your dreams can become bigger and better than you ever thought possible! Now, here’s a funny thought; hang with me. Imagine spending months preparing for a marathon, only to find out on race day that it’s actually a dance-off! Ridiculous, right? But life can be just as surprising. We pour our energy into one thing, only to end up in a completely different situation. The lesson here? Stay focused on your goals, no matter how many unexpected detours come your way. Keep your eyes on the prize and trust that every move you make is part of your unique dance, even if it’s not the routine you planned. What about the moments when you feel like giving up? After the race, Hocker said, “I just felt like I was getting carried by the stadium and God. My body just kind of did it for me. My mind was all there, and I saw that finish line.”  That’s a beautiful reminder that we’re not alone in our struggles. When we feel like we can’t keep going, it’s often our faith and support from others that lift us up. So, whether it’s friends, family, or God above, lean on those who encourage you. And hey, if you’re ever feeling down, just remember that a good chocolate treat can also work wonders! Seriously, chocolate has magical powers—just ask anyone who’s ever been through a breakup! The point is there are many good reasons to run the race. It’s about believing in yourself, putting in the work, and trusting that God has a bigger plan. Life’s challenges may slow you down, but they can also teach you valuable lessons. Remember, it’s not about how fast you finish; it’s about staying in the race and embracing the journey. So lace up your shoes, embrace the adventure, and let’s run this race together—because I promise you, it’ll be worth every step! With boundless hope and unwavering faith, Brock P.S. Remember, the journey might be tough, but the finish line holds a celebration like no other. And hey, treat yourself to the finest chocolate along the way—it’s the perfect fuel for champions like you! 😊

Let’s be real. Daily life can be hectic and consuming. People are always asking for things, tasks pile up, and distractions are everywhere. There are activities you love but rarely have time for, continuous learning and improvements to make, and endless demands to meet at work. When I lay it all out, it's easy to feel overwhelmed 😉 But all of that brings me to today’s quote, and the crux of this message: “In the end, it’s not the years in your life that count. It’s the life in your years.” - Abraham Lincoln Whenever I read that quote (or something similar to it) it makes me pause and reflect on the life that I’m living.. Am I more tired than usual? Sure. Could I have scheduled a bit more down time for myself? Maybe. But would I change any of this? Probably not. Whether it’s writing the next message to you, coaching in the gym, working on my businesses, or spending quality time with my wife and kids, every night when I go to bed the goal is to feel like I moved the needle in some meaningful way. So this is my ask for you today: Are you getting the most out of every day, week, month and year of your life? If so - GREAT! Keep it up. But if not, I want you to ask yourself why.  And keep in mind I ask all of this from a position of humility, empathy and caring - because I truly want to see you succeed. Life is too short not to be happy, and way too long not to do it right. Here are a few questions that might help: How can you take better care of yourself? Is it exercising more often? Eating better? Getting more sleep? Locking in some daily quiet time and prayer with God? In many cases it starts with you FIRST. What could you do to create stronger relationships with your friends and family? Think about the ripples in a pond - the first one is your circle, but the second is those nearest and dearest to you. Are you giving them the time and energy they need from you? Last but not least, what can you do in the business and work realm to push you towards your goals? Maybe it’s sitting down and doing the non-urgent but important work. Maybe it’s carving out an extra 30 minutes to finish that project. Or maybe it’s just getting clear on what you really want. Who you want to work with, work for, serve and contribute to.  So the next time you get ready for bed, ask yourself if you got everything out of the day. As Robin Williams stated in “The Dead Poets Society,” the goal is to “suck the marrow out of life.” Live it full. Live it well.  Now go out there and MAKE IT a great day! With purpose and passion, Brock  P.S. Values and priorities are critical. They provide guardrails and will help you WIN THE DAY! Be strengthened by this truth – You can not be everything to everyone, but you can be Everything to someone. 💯

Today is the day – July 30th is International Friendship Day. Whether you knew that or not, it serves as a good reminder to reflect on the essence of true friendship and the impact it has on our lives. Aristotle, that ancient Greek wisdom wizard, once said there are three types of friendships: those based on utility, those grounded in pleasure or delight, and those built on virtue. Let's unpack this a bit, shall we? First, we have friendships of utility. These relationships benefit both parties in some way. Think colleagues, professional networks, or even the neighbor who borrows your snowblower. These friendships might not be the ones we cherish most, but they play a significant role in our daily lives. Have you ever thought about how many of your interactions fall into this category? Next up are friendships of fun. These are the buddies you hang out with because you genuinely enjoy their company. Maybe they’re your neighbors, pickleball pals, or fellow member of your church. You share laughs, activities, and good times. They bring joy and convenience to your life. But would you cross the country just to see them? Maybe, maybe not. And then, at the pinnacle, we have friendships of virtue. These are the golden ones. The friends you love for who they are, not what they bring to the table. These are the people you’d go out of your way to visit, no matter the distance or inconvenience.  Think about it. Is there one specific friend that immediately pops into your mind? A person you’d drop everything for, just to spend time with them? I have a friend who, in many ways, is my polar opposite. He thrives in chaos while I crave structure. He wings it; I need a plan. He’s an outdoor enthusiast; I’m more of an indoor guy. He’s covered in tattoos; I’m not. Yet, you could lock us in a room for a month, and we’d still be talking and laughing when you open the door. Now, don’t get me wrong. There’s absolutely nothing wrong with having all types of friendships. Each serves its purpose and enriches our lives in different ways. But here’s an interesting nugget from the University of Michigan: the number of friends we have doesn’t significantly impact our well-being. Surprising, right? Instead, what truly matters for higher levels of life satisfaction, self-esteem, and lower levels of depression are two key relationships: a spouse and one true, deep friendship. So, what does this mean for us? Should we start trimming our friend lists? Not necessarily. But it does suggest that nurturing a few meaningful relationships might be more fulfilling than trying to maintain a multitude of shallow ones. It’s about quality over quantity. So, as we celebrate International Friendship Day, let’s cherish our virtuous friends—the ones who make life’s journey worthwhile. Let’s reach out to them, share a laugh, and express our gratitude. One heartfelt way to show your appreciation is by sending your friends a sweet gift from Dulci Sweets. Include a personalized note letting them know how much their friendship means to you. There’s nothing like the joy of receiving a thoughtful gift to remind someone they’re loved and valued. In the end, it's not about having fewer friends, but about having more good ones. Friends who uplift us, inspire us, and stand by us through all of life’s ups and downs. So, here’s to friendship—may we all nurture and treasure our most meaningful connections, today and always. Happy International Friendship Day! Your friend, Brock  P.S. Don’t forget to send that sweet gift and note – it’s the perfect way to show your friends just how special they are!

I absolutely love what’s about to kickoff this Friday. I sure hope you know what I’m talking about. It only comes around every four years. Well, except for the mess in 2020 that pushed it back to 2021.  Whether you are a sports fan or not, the Olympics has something for everyone. It’s the best of the best in the world competing. The stories of setbacks, comebacks, loss and victory are incredible. The pride and love for country, the colors and flags on the front of the uniforms bringing people together–it’s magical and inspiring.  The Olympic competition epitomizes champion attributes of endurance, drive, commitment and excellence. It represents and reminds us of the power, strength, and limitless possibilities of the human spirit.  It’s the absolute best, and I’m pumped to catch as much of it as I possibly can with my boys.  So, what does all this bring to mind? You can be Bad at what you do. You can be Average at what you do. You can be Good - which is probably God’s minimum expectation for whatever ability he gave you. You can be EXCELLENT  You can be ELITE - which I think is ultimately God’s design and intention for each of us.  Whichever one you pick, you got to know this… CHOICE – It's All About Choice Everyone has a choice for what they want to do and how they want to do that.  Want to be Excellent or ELITE?  You have do special things. You need special… Intensity, Focus, Drive, Commitment, Passion To do things at a high level and at a high standard - ALL THE TIME. Your God-given ability can make you good, but without the rest, you'll never be better. NEVER DONE. ALWAYS BETTER! Your biggest opponent? Entitlement, Comfort and Complacency. High achievers know that to perform at the highest level, you cannot stay the same.  Entitlement DESTROYS! Complacency is the enemy.   To be Excellent or Elite demands humility, respect, appreciation, dedication and Consistency in each. Stay Humble. Stay Hungry. Believe you can always Improve. You Are NEVER ABOVE THE WORK – Never Entitled to Success, NEVER!!! Everything must be EARNED ALL THE TIME!! Once you have made the Choice to do the work, you must also possess the knowledge and attitude that NOTHING IS EVER OWED TO YOU or GUARANTEED! CONSISTENCY IS GOLDEN Let’s be clear, CONSISTENCY is not glamours, but it is GOLDEN. It doesn’t make headlines, but it is the backbone of Improvement, Growth, and Success. It’s what separates those that wish for it and those that work for it. The good from the GREAT! And the Great from the ELITE. Consistency is the ONE THING THAT CAN NOT BE COMPROMISED, Period! NO short cut. No quick fix. Success is a marathon, not a sprint. And the only way to get to the finish line is putting one foot in front of the other.  Rain or shine. During the good and the bad. Doing what needs to be done regardless of how you Feel. Regardless of how many “Championships” you’ve won. It’s not about motivation, that just gets you started. It’s about commitment and discipline. That keeps you going when the motivation wanes.  Don’t believe me? Imagine having to work day-in day-out for four years to earn the opportunity to compete for the chance to achieve your dream. Remember, It’s not about being perfect; it’s about being consistent. Show up and do the work. Let your commitment dictate your actions. Allow the COMPOUND EFEECT to work in your favor. No matter how good you are. No matter how talented you are. No matter how much you’ve achieved. You CAN’T Cheat the Work –in sports, in business, relationships, and in life.  Choose wisely, my friend, and know it’s a daily choice. You were made for it.  Let's Go For Gold, Brock  P.S. Set your DVR, order plenty of dulci sweets goodies (e.g. chocolate drizzled caramel corn), and enjoy the most spectacular two weeks of human performance on the planet! GO USA 🇺🇸

We're continuing our encouraging series from James 1, and I'm thrilled to share more powerful life lessons with you. If you missed the previous lessons or want to revisit them, check them out here.  **Life Lesson #1: Show Smiles During Your Trials** **Life Lesson #2: When You’re Stuck in Gear, You Need to Persevere** Ready for more? Let’s do this! **Lesson #3: Stand Stout and Don’t Doubt** Ever feel like you’re adrift in a sea of conflicting advice? Google says one thing, social media says another, and every celebrity has an opinion. It’s exhausting! But let’s cut through the noise—James has some rock-solid wisdom for us. James tells us, “If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you. But when you ask, you must believe and not doubt, because the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind” (James 1:5-6). Think about that for a second. Doubt makes us unstable and indecisive. But when we ask God for wisdom and trust Him completely, He will guide us with clarity and strength. Don’t let doubt rob you of the wisdom and peace God wants to give you. Next time you’re in a bind, ask God for guidance and stand firm in your faith. Don’t waver—believe and act with confidence! **Lesson #4: Listen and Do, Don’t Just Read it Through** We live in a world obsessed with consumption. We brag about how many books we’ve read, but do we actually apply what we learn? The world says to consume without concern for application. Post a selfie with #FamilyIsEverything, but then spend all your time away from your family. OUCH! 😫 It’s all about appearances, right? James cuts through this hypocrisy: “Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. Anyone who listens to the word but does not do what it says is like someone who looks at his face in a mirror and, after looking at himself, goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like” (James 1:22-24). Here’s a fun question: Do you know the words to “Ice, Ice Baby” by Vanilla Ice? Of course, you do! It’s a classic. *Fun Fact Alert…I even danced on stage with Vanilla Ice a few years ago. No joke. “Word to your mother.” 🎙 And I’m positive Mr. Rob Van Winkle (a.k.a. Vanilla Ice) remembers it too. Lol. Why do we remember this song so well? Because we listened to it repeatedly and practiced the moves. It became automatic. Okay, admittedly maybe more for some than others. But why don’t we treat God’s Word the same way? Read it, study it, practice it, and most importantly, live it out! Be intentional and consistent. Make God’s Word a part of your daily life, and watch how it transforms you. James gives us practical wisdom that’s not just for reading but for living. Stand firm in your faith without doubt and actively live out God’s Word. These aren’t just nice ideas—they are life-changing actions that will bring you peace, wisdom, and fulfillment. So here’s your challenge: Trust God fully and live out His teachings with purpose. Be the change you want to see in the world. Shine your light brightly, spread love, peace, joy, and hope wherever you go. Don’t just sit on the sidelines—get in the game and make a difference! Signing and dancing with you, Brock P.S. Let’s embrace God’s Word with the same passion we have for our favorite songs—and our favorite sweets! Just as savoring each bite of Dulci Sweets' extraordinary chocolates brings joy, savoring God's Word can transform our lives and the world around us. Together, we can make this world a better place, one delicious step at a time! So let’s get moving—there’s no time to waste!

I’ve got some incredible life lessons to share with you from one of my absolute favorite books in the Bible—the book of James. This book is packed with straightforward wisdom, relatable analogies, and is the source for our company’s guiding verse: “Every good and perfect gift is from God” (James 1:17). So, let’s dive in and explore these gems together. **Lesson #1: Show Smiles During Your Trials** Ever felt like the world is telling you that trials are the worst? You don’t like your job? Quit. Annoyed with your neighbors? Complain about them. Jealous of someone’s success? Criticize them to feel better. But what if I told you that James has a completely different take? James says, “Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything” (James 1:2-4). Joy during tough times? Sounds crazy, right? But here’s the deal: Trials aren’t just pointless suffering. They’re God’s way of building our character and making us stronger. Think about it—how boring would life be if everything were easy? We grow and learn the most when we’re pushed out of our comfort zones. So, next time you’re in a rough spot, try smiling through it. God’s got a plan, and He’s making you better every step of the way. **Lesson #2: When You’re Stuck in Gear, You Need to Persevere** The world tells us that if something isn’t immediately gratifying, it’s not worth pursuing. We’re bombarded with messages that encourage instant gratification and discourage perseverance. “It’s not fair,” we hear. “I want it now. I deserve it now.” But James counters this mindset with powerful wisdom: “Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him” (James 1:12). Perseverance isn’t just about toughing it out—it’s about trusting God through the mess. And guess what? When we trust Him, we get peace that the world can’t offer. Imagine being calm and collected while everyone else is losing their minds. That’s the kind of peace God gives. It’s not just about surviving the storm but thriving through it because you know God’s got your back. So, next time you’re tempted to throw in the towel, remember that persevering isn’t about being stubborn. It’s about having faith that God’s got something amazing on the other side. And trust me, His blessings are worth the wait. As we chew on these lessons from James, let’s embrace our challenges with joy and perseverance. Every trial is a chance to grow, and every victory brings us closer to our best selves. Whether you’re climbing a mountain or walking through a valley, know that God is shaping you into someone extraordinary. Next week, I’ll share even more life-changing lessons from James. Until then, keep smiling through your trials and trust in God’s plan. Remember, every good and perfect gift in your life comes from above, and He’s guiding you through it all. Keep on keeping on with faith and peace, Brock P.S. When we realize that the valleys are meant to mature us, and the mountaintops are designed to encourage us, we can face anything with hope and resilience. Together, we can shine a light on what is good and positive, making the world a better place filled with Love, Peace, Joy, and Hope.

Ever notice how everyone wants to change the world? We all crave our 15 minutes of fame, whether it's through picture-perfect family photos or epic selfies on social media. We rant about the economy and politics, blaming everyone else for our problems and telling each other how to live better lives.  But is that really making a difference? Take my daughter's senior awards ceremony and graduation, for example. They highlighted individual achievements, which is great for those who truly went above and beyond. But let's be honest, we often celebrate mediocrity, too. Being average isn't good enough for me, and it shouldn't be for you either. So, what does it mean to truly pursue greatness? The good book tells us that we're all uniquely created with special gifts and purposes. That's far from average! In the parable of the talents, the servant who did nothing was called wicked. Doing the bare minimum is like getting a participation trophy—it’s a symptom of our society's problem. How can we tell students they're the future leaders without equipping them to lead? Have we failed to teach them to think for themselves, to strive for more, to value hard work and integrity? Why do we quit when things get tough?  When did “suck it up” and “ignore them” get replaced with “they hurt my feelings” and “I just don’t feel like it”? If you want something, go get it! Put in the work, the extra effort. Turn off the TV, stop binge-watching Netflix, and scrolling mindlessly on social media. Listen to leadership podcasts, read books about successful people, set goals, and go after them.  Once you achieve your goals, then celebrate! Independence Day is the perfect time to reflect on this. Our nation was founded on defiance and determination. Tell us we can't do something, and we’ll prove you wrong. So why not defy mediocrity? This freedom we cherish, fought for and preserved by countless brave souls, gives us the unparalleled opportunity to pursue our dreams, to push boundaries, and to become the best versions of ourselves. Let’s honor their sacrifice by aiming higher and demanding more of ourselves by pushing beyond the tough and hard. Never settling. Choosing excellence.  As parents, grandparents, co-workers, and leaders, we have a responsibility to teach those in our circle to think and perform differently. That's how problems are solved, inventions are created, and leaders are made. It starts with you. Everyone wants to change the world, but to do so, you must be the change you want to see. Celebrate Independence Day by embracing your unique gifts and striving for greatness.  Be the change, Mike P.S. It's the perfect time to reflect on the incredible freedom and opportunities we have in this great nation. Celebrate that and pursue your own greatness with the same courage and determination. 

Problems are a part of life. We all have them, right?  But, do you ever think problems create opportunities? Sounds a bit crazy, but trust me on this.  Norman Vincent Peale once said, "There is only one group of people that don’t have problems, and they are all dead." So, if you've got problems, you're alive and kicking! Embrace it!  Problems are like surprise guests—they show up unannounced, but they can bring unexpected gifts. So, how do we get the most out of these pesky problems? First, let’s talk faith. Faith doesn’t dismiss problems; it sees the potential in them. Winston Churchill nailed it when he said, "The pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity; the optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty." Are you an optimist? Do you look for the silver lining? Successful people don’t have fewer problems; they just see them differently. They welcome problems because they know they’re the gateway to growth and opportunity. Albert Einstein, a guy who knew a thing or two about solving problems, said, "In the middle of difficulty lies opportunity." Problems are like wrapped gifts—you have to dig in and get a little messy to find the treasure inside. Think about it: every innovation, every breakthrough, started as a problem. So, next time you hit a snag, remember, it's just a sign that something amazing is about to happen. Let me share a story about my son, Camden. He's entering his freshman year and was pumped for his summer club track season, following his first spring  season. But, a few weeks ago at the very first basketball open gym, he injured his ankle. Yup, sure enough, he rolled it and badly. Most definitely a grade three sprain, and high ankle sprain to make it even worse.  There goes the track season, and possibly his entire summer of training, practice and competition, including an important team basketball camp upcoming in two weeks that he was extremely excited about.    Of course, he was bummed. But instead of wallowing in disappointment, like his dad, Camden chose to see this as a learning opportunity. He went to the weekend team camp, supported and watched his teammates, and learned from the sidelines. He told me, “Dad, if I hadn’t injured my foot, I wouldn’t have realized all the mistakes I’ve been making. Watching the games and different players made it click – I’ve been making those same errors all along. This experience will definitely make me better and improve my game.” Now that's turning a setback into a comeback!  John Maxwell, a top-notch leader, shares three golden rules of problem-solving. First, believe there is always an answer. If you focus on solutions, you’ll find one. Second, every problem has a lesson. If you only lose if you don’t learn from it. Third, every problem creates an opportunity. It's all about the attitude you bring to the table. So, how do you handle problems? Do you see them as barriers or as stepping stones? Our faith, optimism, and perseverance can turn any obstacle into an opportunity. It’s all about perspective. And remember, you’re not alone. We’re all in this together, facing challenges, and growing stronger every day. As we navigate life's ups and downs, let’s commit to seeing problems as opportunities. Let’s stay positive, uplift each other, and spread joy and hope. And hey, let’s not forget to indulge in some extraordinary hand-crafted dulci sweets chocolate and exquisite curated candies. Life’s too short not to enjoy the sweet moments! Your friend, Brock P.S. If this message or any previous ones have brought a smile to your face or made you think, I’d love to hear from you. And if you know someone who could use a little positivity, share this with them. Let’s spread the love and wisdom together!

Do you find people fascinating? That’s the word I often use instead of frustrating.  Do you find people to be difficult? Are you often saying to yourself, what in the world? Why would they do that? What were they thinking?  Yeah, me too. Oh, and naturally I’m always right. Is that you too?  Of course I’m being funny and maybe a tad bit exaggerated; possibly?  The truth is, when I feel that way or see such things that “fascinate” me, I get offended and upset. Sometimes downright angry. And that’s not healthy for me or for those around me.  AGAIN, not a topic or message you’ll ever receive from a typical, ordinary, everyday chocolate company, but from one that you can expect MORE from. One that wants MORE for you, and for many sweet reasons has become your absolute favorite.  All right, back to the originally schedule program. Lol.  If you can relate, I have a question for you.  How long is it okay to stay angry? Even if you are actually right, and justified in your anger.  I’ll give you a minute to think about that.  Looking to the good book for the answer, there is no righteous anger for humans. There is for God, but not us.  “When you are angry, do not sin, and be sure to stop being angry by the end of the day.”Ephesians 4:36  I’m not suggesting that we shouldn’t get bothered or angry, but I think it’s wise to not let it weigh on us mentally and physically so that it can eat away at us and cause damage.  “Whatever you do with anger, you can do better without it.” ~ Dallas Willard  Anger does not enhance judgement, it clouds it. Rather than hold on to the feeling, let it go, and allow it to propel you into action. You can have better judgment after you forgive, and still act to do the right thing.  1 Corinthains 4 - “I don’t know other people’s motives. I don’t even know my own. Therefore, I will have to leave it up to God in the end.” We are all a pretty mixed up and messed up bag of things. People are broken, fragile, selfish, complicated, and really good at making things harder than they should be.  Here’s the thing…If we know this, and I can see you shaking your head in agreement, why do we act utterly stunned and surprised when it happens?  Instead, wake up every morning and remind yourself what God has done for you. Commit yourself each day to not be offended by people doing people stuff.   Pre-decide that you’re not going to be shocked again. No more!  Start each and every day with, “Lord help men forgive others as you have forgiven me.”  If you go into your day with this mentality, knowing your boss, your colleagues, your staff, this guy or that women, is going to do what he/she does, (that’s going to happen today)…forgive them in advance. You are exercising Forgiveness in advance. This is called Discipleship. This is being more like Jesus.  Not because they deserve it, but because we don’t. And God gave it to us anyway.  Please do yourself a huge favor. Re-read the above statement. Know it, say it and start each day anew with it at the forefront of your mind.  If you know how this ends, you won’t become so frustrated or angry.  God is with us!!!  Your very good friend, Brock  P.S. Got a friend who could benefit from this message? Please forward it to them and let's spread the good vibes together! (Because hey, positivity is always better when shared!)