the Dream Seed M i l i t a r y edition
Joey O
Best s elling auth o r
f o rewo rd by
Bob Hope
foreword by
BOB HOPE
“
Building dreams is a good profession—providing, of course, the a r c h i t e c t h a s h i s f e e t o n t h e g r o u n d . Wi t h h i s b o o k , T h e D r e a m Seed, Joey O not only tells you how to dream but how to make t h a t d r e a m b e c o m e a r e a l i t y. I c o n s i d e r J o e y O a f r i e n d a n d a g r e a t e n t e r t a i n e r. H i s p o s i t i v e a t t i t u d e a b o u t l i f e r u b s o f f o n
y o u a n d m a k e s y o u f e e l b e t t e r. F o r c h i l d r e n f r o m a g e s 4 t o 1 0 4 , t h i s i s a t r u l y i n s p i r i n g s t o r y. . . a t r u e s t o r y
a Joey O Publication
Joey O is an acrobatic golf entertainer and author of the award-winning bestseller The Dream Seed. ©2013 by Joey O All rights reserved. The Dream Seed Series® and ‘Joey O’ are registered trademarks of Joey O. First printing 1996 Second Printing 1997 Third Printing 2000 Fourth Printing 2008 Fifth printing 2010 Sixth printing 2013 Published 2013. Printed in the United States of America. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted, in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, recording or otherwise, without the prior written permission of Joey O, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical articles and reviews. Edited by Cathy Wilkie and Joseph Henri Cover and book design by Ryan Rader Library of Congress Card Catalogue Number 96-94954 ISBN 0-9652234-0-X
appreciation for Joey O and Joey O’s publications
For the many soldiers and their families who have so often put personal dreams on hold so that they could serve others, this books is both an inspiration - and a reminder, to also dream for themselves. —General Stanley McChrystal, US Army (Ret.) Joey, if The Dream Seed helps just one child, it will be worth all your effort. —My Beloved Mom, Pat As golf fans, we love Joey’s act; but as parents and grandparents, we believe in and love his attitude in life. —Commander-in-Chief President George Bush and Mrs. Barbara Bush ...We have already requested five copies to pass on to our granddaughters. —Commander-in-Chief President Gerald Ford and Mrs. Betty Ford I consider Joey O a friend and a great entertainer. His positive attitude about life rubs off on you and makes you feel better. —Bob Hope When somebody said, “Listen to you mother,’ Joey O paid attention. This inspirational book is the wonderful end result of that, passing to its readers thoughtful guidance for their everyday lives.” —Arnold Palmer ...very entertaining... kind of you to think of me and I am most appreciative. I hope your career continues to go well. Very best wishes. —Ben Hogan
the End. Beg in with t h e E nd in Min d
The Reverend Edward Ferguson had just read a copy of my book, The Dream Seed, and asked me to revise it for the U.S. Military members returning from Iraq and Afghanistan. He wanted it to be inclusive enough to be used in the treatment for all personnel, from enlistees to generals. I was flattered by the request and feel privileged to oblige.
The award winning, best seller The Dream Seed originated
in 1994 and took two and one-half years to complete. With the help of my beloved mother’s editing, the original transcript came out in 1996. The reason for sharing this wonderful story was born out of the gratitude. I felt, and still feel, living the life I always imagined I could inspire others to live their dreams as well. You may be wondering why it took so long for me to write my first book. Reading has always been a struggle for me. In fact, I scored a 2 on the A.C.T. college reading test. To make a long story short, I graduated from high school and college without reading five pages of school books.
My college teachers would say things to me like, “Son, I don’t have time for rotten students, and you’re a rotten student!” I suppose they were correct, but I knew I was a good person.
I didn’t understand until I was 35 years of age that I had
several types of dyslexia. I consider dyslexia a “gift.” My challenges helped me to become very good at what I do. I do believe I am writing and performing the best I can be because of the values I will share with you on the following pages.
Actually what I do may seem amazing, but let me share
with you facts about two of my practice friends. Paul Hebert, a retired electrician from Canada who hits a beautiful golf ball despite his three artificial limbs due to a bolt of electricity traveling through his body has an amazing attitude. The other friend I greatly admire is Jeff Lewis, who hits balls where I train. Jeff has four artificial limbs. Like Paul Hebert, he is amazing! Check out Jeff ’s website (www.dontworryaboutme.com). They are both so inspiring. I hope you can meet one of both of them someday.
My Mom taught me s-o-o-o much! It was her final years and
moments which amazed me most about her attitude and strength. My mother lost her left eye to cancer and never complained. Her great desire was to help and inspire others facing life with ocular melanoma. Sadly, several years later it spread to her liver and as I write, tears come to my eyes and my throat feels the pain of losing her. She went to the National Institute of Health Hospital in Bethesda, Maryland for experimental surgery. Things did not go well; she never walked, never got to come home again, never
complained. I felt the pain in my very being, but her attitude was as perfect as it had always been. In fact, just prior to going into surgery, she said, “If things don’t go well, It’s been a lot of fun!” We can all learn from her and my two awe-inspiring friends.
No matter what one’s present circumstances are, I
challenge you to have this attitude.
President Gerald and Betty Ford and President George
Bush and Barbara Bush endorse my book as does one of my mentors, Bob Hope. He was the best friend the military has ever known.
This book is dedicated to you. I applaud you for risking your life so that people like me can live their dream seed and bring happiness to others. I feel honored to share this message with you. Reverend Ed told me so much of what he saw and felt as he visited the wounded at the Landstuhl Regional Medical Center (Army Hospital) in Germany. You are heroes – big time heroes – and may the following pages inspire you as much as you have inspired me. God bless you and God bless the United States Military!
Think Abundantly. Speak with Knowingness. Believe in the Unbelievable. Live with Purpose. Smile and make others smile as your Dream Seed blossoms!
- Joe y O
chapter 1
Plant
Your
D ream
S e e d
In 1961 at the age of four, my parents took me to a circus in my home town in Iowa, where I still live. I was inspired as I looked into my mother’s beautiful eyes watching the jugglers, balancing act and comedy skits. I knew on that day that bringing happiness and inspiring others was something I wanted to share with the world. So, I planted a dream seed to be the best entertainer I could be – bringing smiles to millions.
Just as a magnificent oak tree starts as a tiny acorn, one
little thought planted in the fertile soil of a mind can grow into a wonderful life and fulfilling career.
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I plant wonderful thoughts in my creative mind. I u s e m y i n t e l l i g e n c e i n t e l l i g e n t l y.
From an invisible thing, called a thought, you can see the thought grow into something visible that is called a demonstration of a thought. Every man-made material thing you can see and touch came from a human mind and you own one free and clear. Everything you see is created twice, first by thought and then by action on that thought (from your military shoelaces and wardrobe to the USS Iowa) as it manifests into our physical world.
This is what I call the Dream Seeds Law of Growth!
Both the five-star general and the enlisted troop who
goes AWOL, are using this law, one for good and one for bad. We are always creating and growing something in our minds.
Our
subconscious mind always says “Yes.” I compare the conscious mind as the general who gives orders to the troops. These troops are trained to do what they are commanded. They must! The military troops are like our subconscious minds. If we say we are going to have a bad day, we will have a bad day. We have gotten just what we have planted.
Jeff and Paul did not choose their physical situations in life.
Yet they did choose to have a perfect attitude regarding it. They trained their conscious minds to say and think optimistically. Their subconscious mind said “Yes!”
This is a law just like gravity. Let me ask you this: Would
we ever put fertilizer on a weed? Absolutely never! Then why would we ever talk about and think about what we do not want to grow in our world? We must train our mind and our words to plant the dream seed of what we want to grow; never, ever what we do not want to grow.
So let me throw the ball in your court: What have you been thinking about? What have you been talking about? Do they mirror your attitude and outlook on life?
In order for a dream seed to grow it is a must to put our
attention to the solution of the challenge instead of the challenge itself. Then we have a healing. I have gladly admitted I have missed more golf shots than anyone in the world – millions and millions. Yet, this has taught me how to do it correctly. I always saw in my mind doing shots perfectly, even when I could not even make contact. I trained my mind just like doing pushups for my arms. As physical as my show is, I’ve realized it is mostly mental. I challenge you to plant your dream seed. Be it. Talk about it. Think about it. Whenever a negative word or thought enters, the secret is to replace it immediately with your dream seed. (By the way, a dream seed is for good only.)
Jeff and Paul had to learn to walk for the second time in
their lives and I am sure their attitude was, “I learned to walk as an infant and I can learn to walk as an adult.” Remember first by thought, then by action. What is your dream? Please write it down now! Think about it every day and take action!
As an acorn seed breaks through the soil – even only one
inch, it is still an oak tree. A two-week-old oak tree is not a 100-yearold oak tree of 200 feet, but it is still an oak tree. The minute you plant your dream seed in your mind and take the action of writing it down, your dream seed is growing. Please know this and believe
this . . . Plant your dream seed NOW!
As veterans returning home, your dream seed may be to
overcome a physical or mental challenge, find an occupation of your dreams or just accept calm in your world. Please write it down now! See and feel yourself as already in possession of your dream seed now.
chapter 2
Time
N e v e r Wi s h Yo u r L i f e A w a y I t I s A b o u t Ti m e
As a little boy, one day I said to my mother, “I cannot wait until Saturday. I want it to hurry and be here now!” My mom said to me, “Joey, never wish your life away. A day gone is gone forever. It cannot come back. Enjoy each day and make it the best you can. Then you will have a life that is happy and full.” Wow! I am so grateful that my mother taught me this. With this lesson I learned to make perfect use of my time and had the sorest and most beat-up hands to prove it. Practicing fourteen hours every day can do that to you!
My mom taught me Law Number 2: The Dream Seed Law
of Time.
A dream seed planted without action is like a carrot seed
that gets no sun or water . . .it cannot grow.
Realizing I had so much to learn, using my time perfectly
was a must. Again, I had to train my mind to block out my injuries and pain, yet still be the first one on the practice tee and the last one off. Then I went to work on my late night job so I could eat and pay the rent. I had a tiny room on the second floor of an old house where the kitchen was a refrigerator in the bathroom. I had no air conditioning, which was considered an essential in Iowa’s humid summers! I gave it no thought as my mind was on my dream seed and bringing smiles to an audience.
I realize that with all frustrations and challenges of show
business I must learn to never take anything personally and allow the past to be the past. Training and being in the moment I knew each day was the gift of time to improve. I know it today after 33 years of entertaining and 47 years of practicing. “Yesterday ended last night,” I would tell myself; “Today I get to start anew and use my time to be all I can be.” And you, a military member and/or veteran can also decide to be the best!
We all have the same amount of time – that invisible thing
called time. We cannot see it, but we can see the result of how well we use it. Twenty-four hours a day, wow! It’s a gift of time and we can improve every day. This moment is a gift – that is why we call it the present.
In my childhood and still today, one of my role models was
Ben Hogan. He was nearly killed in the early 1950’s by a Greyhound bus that hit his car with his wife, Valerie and him, in it. He threw his body over to protect her and barely lived. He lay in the hospital and all he could do was squeeze a rubber ball to exercise his hands. They thought he would never walk again, but he made perfect use of his mind and time. He believed in himself and he went on to dominate golf like never before. (Tiger Woods wishes he could hit a driver as accurately as Ben Hogan and Tiger would admit that to you.) It all started with squeezing a ball because that was all Ben Hogan could do at the time.
His dream seed of winning all those majors after his
accident was started by this small act.
As a military troop or veteran perhaps you can relate and
now realize the essence that all achievement starts with the smallest act. Look what Ben Hogan did! He became the best golfer in the world after the doctors did not think he would live. He lived and they thought he may not walk, but he did. They did not think he would play golf again, but he did. Ben Hogan became the best in the world.
Squeeze your “rubber ball,” believe and use your mind and
time perfectly. You can if you choose to.
It is About
Time
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E a c h d a y i n e v e r y w a y, I u s e m y t i m e t o t h e f u l l e s t . I get things accomplished on time...every time.
chapter 3
You Are Th e B e s t P e r s o n Yo u C a n B e
When I was a boy I was often confused because I treated people with respect and goodness, yet at times people did not treat me that way. So, I asked my wise mother about this.
My mother said, “You cannot expect others to be like you,
Joey. You keep being the best person you can be. That is what is important.� How simple, how profound.
She taught me to focus on the good, dwell on the good,
speak of the good.
When I was a little boy my grandparents did not have much
money and yet they would quietly sneak over on Christmas Eve and fill our basement with gifts. My grandma was wonderful. Her example of never, ever saying a negative thing about anyone taught me to look for the good in others and situations!
We all must be mindful of this so our dream seed can
grow.
Speaking well of ourselves is a must. I say if we belittle
ourselves, we become little.
Our good words are wonderful fertilizer for our dream
seeds. Be kind to yourself!
Angels can fly because they take themselves lightly – so
must we.
The only thing we must deprive ourselves of is negativity!
When we learn from our mistakes, they become our lessons. If we do not learn, they are mistakes. I’ve learned far more from my challenges than I ever had my successes! What do you say when you speak to yourself? What do you think when you think of yourself?
Being the best military member or veteran that you really
are, I hope that you think and speak very highly of yourself. Way to go! Believe that you are the best person you can be.
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I am the best I can be and kind to all. I speak of goodness and share my goodness.
Know
that you are the best person you can be.
What other people do and say is their business and d o e s n ’t h a v e t o c h a n g e t h e w a y y o u f e e l a b o u t y o u r s e u l f .
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I u s e m y m i n d c r e a t i v e l y. My attitude is perfect and I share my goodness.
Thoughts become things.
Plant strong and happy thoughts in your mind, s o y o u r D r e a m S e e d w i l l g r o w.
chapter 4
Per-r-r-r-Fect Bob Vavra has been my mentor and my friend. He is a retired golf professional and wonderful father and husband. Bob is one of the most brilliant people I know. He took an interest in my future that has helped me and also helped me pay it forward to help others. I grew up without TV, so I would listen to my tape player as a boy, and still do to this today, as I go to sleep. Bob would give me selfimprovement tapes by Earl Nightingale.
I realized that the tapes were programming my mind for
achievement.
I learned thoughts become things; what we think about, we
bring about! That success starts in consciousness, as does abundance. If our minds are not trained for abundance and acceptance of our good, we will not hold on to it. You only have to look at lotto winners and pro athletes who have made millions only to end up broke financially and mentally. Success first comes from an attitude of success.
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I think happy thoughts. I speak happy words. I share my beautiful smile.
Know
that you are the best person you can be.
What other people do and say is their business and d o e s n ’t h a v e t o c h a n g e t h e w a y y o u f e e l a b o u t y o u r s e u l f .
People who have the correct attitude will see someone driving a BMW while they are driving a clunker and think and say to themselves, “Someday I will have a car if I work intelligently on my dream seed.” A poor attitude will say, “Wow! I’ll never get a car like that . . ” And they won’t. If they happen to win one, they’ll lose it. We’ve all heard the stories.
Bob taught me all about attitude – it is how we think.
As we must program our minds and words our life will follow. You can’t become a 5-star general by thinking only as a private who cleans toilets! (By the way, I was the janitor at the golf course at night and I admit I was #1 at cleaning #2.) As I was cleaning the toilets, my mind was thinking of how I could make my audience smile – my dream seed.
Happy Thinking
Happy Life
Sad Thinking
Sad Life
Stinkin’ thinkin’ is a major “no-no.”
We get what we plant, so we best have our intention and
attention on something GREAT.
What we think about we bring about and I can say it forever
and I surely will. What we talk about we bring about. It is also a law.
Paul and Jeff did not like the hand they were dealt, but
their words and thoughts were focused on what they wanted: To live life, be a great husband, speak inspiration to others, laugh and
play golf. They do all that and more.
Bob taught me something I’d like you to do (notice I did not
say “try.”)
I would ask Bob, “How is your world today?” Bob would
answer every time with, “Per-r-r-r-fect.”
I know that may sound funny, but it is vital to success.
Our words mean things. Our words are fertilizer for our
dream seeds.
No matter what, Bob said, “Perfect!” and his life is a mirror
image of his word. So is mine and so is yours. When people talk about their illness, they are making it worse. Again, they are putting fertilizer on a weed.
When anyone asks you how you are, smile and say “Per-
r-r-r-fect” as you raise your arms even if it is the last thing you feel like saying. Do it over and over and make it a habit. If you do it for a month you’ll do it forever because when we change our words, our world changes.
As a military member or veteran you’ve learned about
creating proper habits - - from basic training forward. Your great habits made you a great warrior.
chapter 5
Listen
To
Your
Inner
Vo i c e
When we pray, meditate and focus on our dream seeds, we get ideas and hunches in our minds. We will accidently bump into people who are coincidently there to help us. Listen to your hunches and act on them. This is your inner voice answering your request.
Please know that our dreams seeds should benefit and
bring goodness to others as well as ourselves.
My hunch came to me as I was brushing my teeth. I literally
dropped my toothbrush and knew what kind of entertainer I would become and bring happiness to people. I would be an acrobatic golf comedian.
Creative ideas came to me in abundance and wonderful
people showed up, Bob Hope included – more on that soon!
As a military member or veteran, your intuition has served
you well perhaps it saved yours and the lives of others. You’ve been trained to use your intelligence intelligently – using your gut instinct, your inner voice is speaking to you!
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Daily I pay attention to my “inner voice.” I take action on this wonderful wisdom within. I bring goodness to others and myself!
Listen
to your “inner voice.”
Then do the actions it tells you. Yo u r D r e a m S e e d w i l l g r o w a n d b e c o m e r e a l .
chapter 6
Imagination Use Your Imagination My father was so wise. He was in the military and taught me discipline – BIG TIME! He told me as a boy, “Your creator gave you a mind – THINK, THINK, THINK.”
That is exactly what I did. I thought of incredible athletic
golf shots to bring happiness to everyone. I used my intelligence – intelligently! That intelligence, combined with making perfect use of my time and believing in myself began the dream seed of a great career now in my 33rd year.
Our minds must be focused on the good and should weed
(negative) thoughts pop up, yank them out just like we would in a garden.
“Worry is imagination misused,” Einstein said. It is so true.
Again, as your imagination soars, hunches will come to you
in abundance. Write them down, act on them, grow your dream seed. Your creator is your partner and wants you to grow.
Troops are trained to make important decisions, to use
their minds calmly in times of challenge. These are your imagination skills which you already possess.
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I u s e m y i m a g i n a t i o n a w e s o m e l y. I take action on my Dream Seed and have fun E v e r yd ay !
Use your
Imagination
to think up fun and creative ideas. Then practice them every day to the best of your ability!
chapter 7
DO Yo u r
Best
One of my jobs was at “The Iowa City Press Citizen� stuffing ads in the paper. I worked with people who had disabilities. They did their best and were happy.
They taught me to do my best. When we do our best, we
feel good about ourselves and our dream seed grows abundantly. We must do our best!
How we think and feel about ourselves is the most important
decision we will ever make.
As a military member or veteran, you are taught to excel,
this is doing your very best. You most likely are qualified to teach this chapter perfectly!
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I t h i n k o f m y D r e a m S e e d e v e r y d a y. I take action on my Dream Seed everyday! I am my Dream Seed in action, and wow— I have great fun!
If you keep thinking about your dream and spend lots of time getting better at what you desire, your Dream Seed will give you the wonderful life you want.
chapter 8
Always Believe
in
You !
For years and years I trained so hard and few would hire me. In fact, even if I asked to perform for free, they would say “no.” I did not believe a word they said. I still train every day -- still believing, still knowing!
I turned their “No” into my “Know.”
My inner voice told me “Keep on.” Keep on I did!
The secret is, if you can believe in yourself when no one
else does, you’ll be very successful.
As a new military member just starting out and leaving for
basic training you may have doubted yourself, yet you got where you are by believing in yourself. You’ve learned how to believe in yourself! You’ve accomplished this in the past and perhaps you can apply this to your new dream seed.
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I always believe in me! Even during a challenge, I always believe in my Dream Seed! I know the truth about me! I am successful and happy every day!
Even if
no one believes in you... believe in yourself. Always remember your Dream Seed.
Keep a picture of it in your mind every day!
chapter 9
Be Yourself In 1981 I drove from Iowa to California in a small gray Chevy to pursue my dream seed.
When I got there, the first night I slept in the car. Then,
for the next six weeks I slept on a La-Z-Boy chair in the golf shop of Lakeside Country Club near Burbank. I always believe good comes from everything and sure enough, I met Bob Hope who was a member. He was a gentleman and the best friend of the military. He gave me both of his phone numbers. I helped him with his golf swing (which was very good) and Bob would help teach me to be a swell entertainer. I’d ask Bob for fatherly advice as well. One day I asked him “What is your secret to giving happiness to others?” Bob grinned and replied, “Just be yourself, Joey.”
Wow! Since I couldn’t pass an acting class, I had it made.
(LOL) If we cannot be ourselves, we cannot be anyone. Being our authentic self will bring us peace and I believe being at peace is the finest gift we can give our creator!
As veterans, you all know that being your authentic self is
how you are trained. So I am preaching to the choir.
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I make perfect use of my mind, my time, and my beliefs! I am always honest to all and myself— my Dream Seed grows abundantly!
Honesty
is the fertilizer for achievement. Be honest with yourself and with others, a n d y o u r D r e a m S e e d w i l l g r o w.
chapter 10
Share
You r
G o o dne s s
Larry Griswold, the famous comedian trampolinist, was another Iowa mentor and old friend of mine. He taught me so much; he was a genius on connecting with the audience. (Google Larry Griswold, The Frank Sinatra Show) and you can see a 4-minute clip of his show in black and white from the 1950’s.) I felt something was missing in my show and I asked Larry. He asked me if the audience had a great time. I said “Yes,” then he asked me something I’ve always remembered. He asked me who I was trying to entertain, myself or the audience?
The secret was to always focus on the others.
Bring
goodness to others. Share your happiness. When people ask me what I think about when I swing a golf club, I smile and say, “The audience!” d a i ly a f f i r m at i o n
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I share my happiness! I give to others first! Good things always come my way! Oh yeah! Oh yeah! Oh yeah!
In 1992, another wise Iowa friend of mine who was in his 90’s, shared this special thought: “Those who bring happiness to others cannot keep it from themselves!” That is so true.
As you can see, as a boy and young man, I have been gifted
with many great mentors who have shared important lessons, all necessary lessons to grow a dream seed.
I am so grateful to have taken their advice. I keep a list of
their wisdom!
Perhaps some people share wonderful ideas with you, too.
I would like you to jot them down and refer to them as years
go by. Ask people for advice on helping you grow? I bet they would be flattered! If you do not ask, the answer is already “No.” What do you have to lose? Share your smile and goodness to all. Just like one kernel of corn will grow one ear of corn, and one ear will grow a row, and one row will grow an acre, and one acre will grow a farm, your smiles and goodness toward others will grow a wonder dream seed for you to share!
There are wonderful TV clips showing those who serve in the
military giving help and gifts and using their skills in Iraq and Afghanistan to improve lives. I applaud you for sharing your goodness.
Remember
w h e n y o u s h a r e y o u r h a p p i n e s s , y o u w i l l b e h a p p y, t o o . When you give to others first, good things will n a t u r a l l y c o m e b a c k t o y o u . I t ’s l i k e t h e s u n s h i n i n g o n y o u r D r e a m S e e d , h e l p i n g i t g r o w.
chapter 11
A Dream Seed Grows O v e r Ti m e !
After years of training and believing goodness grows, gratefully I’ve been able to entertain millions world-wide from Japan to the “Tonight Show” with Jay Leno (which took 27 years to manifest.) This is what daily training of our minds and bodies can do.
We must allow the past challenges to be the past and
when things go badly don’t go with them. Focusing on the good, our dream seed will grow.
What we do with our life is our report card!
Life is not a dress rehearsal.
As a military member or veteran, you know it takes time to
grow any seed; be patient and allow it to grow in nature’s time.
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I a l l o w m y D r e a m S e e d t o g r o w i n n a t u r e ’s t i m e . I a m patient, accepting, tolerant, and kind! I nurture it, believe in it and know it is so! As I bring goodness to all, I am ever so appreciative and grateful! Thank you!
A Dream
Seed grows over time.
Keep nurturing it and believing that your dream has already come true.
Chapter 12
Affirmations
( J o e y O ’s m o m p i c t u r e d a b o v e )
attitude is everything
d a i ly a f f i r m at i o n s say out loud enthusiastically many times daily
P O S I T I V E A F F I R M AT I O N F O R F I N D I N G T H E R I G H T R E L AT I O N S H I P I , _ _ _ _ , a f f i r m t h e s e w o r d s o u t l o u d m a n y t i m e s d a i l y. T h e good I am looking for is looking for me. I now claim this u n i o n w i t h m y p e r f e c t m a t e . M y m a t e i s h a p p y, h o n e s t , a n d h e a l t h y. We s h a r e t h e s a m e v a l u e s a n d m o r a l s . A l l t h a t I desire in this beautiful relationship I am also willing to g i v e . We s u p p o r t a n d n u r t u r e e a c h o t h e r. E f f o r t l e s s l y, w e share our love! It is this love that allows us to accept each o t h e r i n t o t a l i t y. I g i v e g r a t e f u l t h a n k s f o r t h i s G O O D N E S S to share. I affirm and know it is so.
P O S I T I V E A F F I R M AT I O N F O R KEEPING MARRIAGE HAPPY & LASTING I , _ _ _ _ , a f f i r m t h e s e w o r d s o u t l o u d m a n y t i m e s d a i l y. M y m a r r i a g e i s f i l l e d w i t h l o v e , h a r m o n y, a n d p e a c e . I l o o k f o r the good in this beautiful relationship, and I compliment m y s p o u s e d a i l y. E a c h d a y, i n e v e r y w a y, o u r l o v e g r o w s s t r o n g e r. O u r r e l a t i o n s h i p i s b u i l t o n h o n e s t y a n d t r u s t . I t i s f i l l e d w i t h l o v e, p a s s i o n , a n d e xc i t e m e n t . I a m s o g r a t e f u l for my wonderful spouse. I give grateful thanks for this GOODNESS to share. I affirm and know it is so.
d a i ly a f f i r m at i o n s say out loud enthusiastically many times daily
POSI T I VE AF F I RM AT I ON F OR R ELEAS I NG A M AT E RI AL OBJ E CT ( e .g ., a h o u se ) I , _ _ _ _ , a f f i r m t h e s e w o r d s o u t l o u d m a n y t i m e s d a i l y. The good I am looking for is looking for me. My home has served me well. It is now time to release it to someone who can enjoy it as much as I have. I release this home in the perfect time and at the perfect price. I am grateful for this honest and harmonious transaction. I give grateful thanks for this GOODNESS to share. I affirm and know it is so.
P O S I T I V E A F F I R M AT I O N F O R THE DECISION OF PEACE I , _ _ _ _ , a f f i r m t h e s e w o r d s o u t l o u d m a n y t i m e s d a i l y. I n o w choose peace! I release all disharmonious people, places, a n d t h i n g s i n m y w o r l d . I a c c e p t c a l m a n d j o y. I a c c e p t others’ ways of life, even if they differ from mine. I tend to my garden, and this gives me peace. No one can upset me without my permission. I now claim control over my thoughts. I accept ownership in this freedom and rejoice in this truth. I give grateful thanks for this GOODNESS to share. I affirm and know it is so.
d a i ly a f f i r m at i o n s say out loud enthusiastically many times daily
P O S I T I V E A F F I R M AT I O N F O R THE PERFECT WEIGHT I , _ _ _ _ , a f f i r m t h e s e w o r d s o u t l o u d m a n y t i m e s d a i l y. I n o w s e e m y s e l f a t m y i d e a l w e i g h t . W o w, I f e e l g r e a t a n d l o o k t e r r i f i c ! I n o w r e s p o n d w i t h a b i l i t y. I p u t t h e p e r f e c t food in my mouth and the perfect thoughts in my mind. I b e l i e v e i n m y s e l f. I h a v e t o t a l c o n t r o l o v e r w h a t I a l l o w into my body; food no longer owns me. I am guided to the perfect people who help me reach my goal of ___ pounds o r l i g h t e r. I l o v e m y s e l f. I e n j o y m y l i f e . E a c h d a y, i n e v e r y w a y, I a m h e a l t h i e r, l i g h t e r, s t r o n g e r, a n d m o r e e n e r g i z e d . M y l i f e w o r k s b e a u t i f u l l y. I m o v e f r e e l y a n d e f f o r t l e s s l y. I know what to do and I do it. I give grateful thanks for this GOODNESS to share. I affirm and know it is so.
P O S I T I V E A F F I R M AT I O N F O R ENERGY I , _ _ _ _ , a f f i r m t h e s e w o r d s o u t l o u d m a n y t i m e s d a i l y. I a m abundant energy in action. I love life and life loves me. E a c h d a y, i n e v e r y w a y, I e n t h u s i a s t i c a l l y m o v e f o r w a r d . Wo w, m y l i f e i s a w e s o m e . I s u r r o u n d m y s e l f w i t h f u n - l o v i n g , energetic people. I speak, think, and act with incredible e n e r g y. I a m f i l l e d w i t h o p t i m i s m . I r e l e a s e a l l n e g a t i v e thoughts, feelings, and actions. Low energy no longer s e r v e s m e . I m o v e f o r w a r d w i t h g u s t o . I a m h e a l t h y, v i b r a n t , alert, and alive. My world is awesome. I give grateful thanks for this GOODNESS to share. I affirm and know it is so.
d a i ly a f f i r m at i o n s say out loud enthusiastically many times daily
P O S I T I V E A F F I R M AT I O N F O R C R E AT I V E I M A G I N AT I O N I , _ _ _ _ , a f f i r m t h e s e w o r d s o u t l o u d m a n y t i m e s d a i l y. I n o w u s e m y i n t e l l i g e n c e i n t e l l i g e n t l y. A w e s o m e , c r e a t i v e i d e a s f l o w t h r o u g h m e e f f o r t l e s s l y. I t a k e a c t i o n o n t h e m . I d e m o n s t r a t e t h e m . T h e s e i d e a s a r e f u n a n d e xc i t i n g . I b r i n g g o o d n e s s t o h u m a n i t y d a i l y. M y i d e a s g r o w a b u n d a n t l y a n d b r i l l i a n t l y. P e r f e c t i d e a s a l w a y s c o m e t o m e a t t h e p e r f e c t time and place. My creative imagination is alert, alive, and awake. I listen to my inner voice. My highest good is d e m o n s t r a t e d b e a u t i f u l l y w i t h j o y. I g i v e g r a t e f u l t h a n k s f o r this GOODNESS to share. I affirm and know it is so.
P O S I T I V E A F F I R M AT I O N F O R INTEGRITY & HONESTY I , _ _ _ _ , a f f i r m t h e s e w o r d s o u t l o u d m a n y t i m e s d a i l y. M y word is my bond. I am honest to all, myself included. I mean what I say and I say what I mean. My word is impeccable. My life is integrity in action. I treat others as I wish to be treated. My standards are high, and I use them for the highest good for all. I do things correctly the first time. The quality of my work for others is as good as if I were d o i n g i t f o r m y s e l f. I w a l k m y w a l k , I t a l k m y t a l k . I a m w h a t I am. Honesty and integrity are the seeds in my garden, a n d t h e y g r o w p e r f e c t l y d a i l y. I g i v e g r a t e f u l t h a n k s f o r t h i s GOODNESS to share. I affirm and know it is so.
d a i ly a f f i r m at i o n s say out loud enthusiastically many times daily
P O S I T I V E A F F I R M AT I O N F O R BEING A BETTER LISTENER I , _ _ _ _ , a f f i r m t h e s e w o r d s o u t l o u d m a n y t i m e s d a i l y. I l i s t e n p e r f e c t l y. I l o o k i n t o o t h e r s ’ e y e s a s t h e y s p e a k . I allow them to complete their sentences. I have two ears and one mouth for a reason; I listen twice as much as I speak. When I speak, I learn little. When I listen, I learn very much. I listen so well that I hear all words and the meaning behind the words. I release the need to interrupt. I release the need to be right. I release the need to be heard. I listen to my inner voice as well. I take action on my wonderful invisible hunches. My mind is open and receptive. M y l i s t e n i n g s k i l l s i m p r o v e d a i l y, m y l i f e i m p r o v e s d a i l y. I accept and give this wonderful gift of listening. I give grateful thanks for this GOODNESS to share. I affirm and know it is so.
d a i ly a f f i r m at i o n s say out loud enthusiastically many times daily
P O S I T I V E A F F I R M AT I O N F O R R E M A I N I N G Y O U T H F U L A LWAY S I , _ _ _ _ , a f f i r m t h e s e w o r d s o u t l o u d m a n y t i m e s d a i l y. I now affirm youthfulness. I think young, I act young, and I feel young. My spirit is alert, alive, and awake. Age i s a n a t t i t u d e , n o t a n u m b e r. I e f f o r t l e s s l y r e m o v e o l d thinking from my consciousness. I am here to love life and experience good, and I do. I only allow uplifting, positive thoughts in my mind. My words are affirmative. I spend time with positive people with youthful attitudes. Age is no l o n g e r a n e xc u s e. M y b o d y f e e l s g r e a t , a n d I m o v e f r e e l y w i t h e a s e . M y m e m o r y a n d m i n d f u n c t i o n p e r f e c t l y. I s m i l e m o r e. I l a u g h m o r e. I s h a r e m y e xc i t e m e n t f o r l i f e w i t h a l l . My youthful spark is contagious. People love me, and I l o v e p e o p l e. M y v o i c e r e s o n a t e s e xc i t e m e n t . M y s t e p h a s a s p r i n g t o i t . I a m f i l l e d w i t h y o u t h f u l v i t a l i t y a n d e n e r g y. I give grateful thanks for this GOODNESS to share. I affirm and know it is so.
d a i ly a f f i r m at i o n s say out loud enthusiastically many times daily
P O S I T I V E A F F I R M AT I O N F O R TIME & TIMING I , _ _ _ _ , a f f i r m t h e s e w o r d s o u t l o u d m a n y t i m e s d a i l y. I u s e m y t w e n t y f o u r h o u r s p r o d u c t i v e l y. E a c h d a y, i n e v e r y w a y, my growth is abundant. I am filled with optimism and trust. I am action in motion. I listen to my hunches. I am grateful f o r t h e s e g i f t s . E f f o r t l e s s l y, I t u n e i n t o m y c o n s c i o u s n e s s a n d a c c e p t i n f o r m a t i o n f r e e l y. P e r f e c t i d e a s a r e r e v e a l e d at the perfect time and place. Everything is in perfect order and synch with nature’s laws. I allow things to unfold in nature’s time. I force nothing. I am led. I am shown. I am d i r e c t e d . M y t i m i n g i s p e r f e c t . I r e m a i n r e l a xe d . I g r o w t o m y f u l l e s t d a i l y. I k n o w a l l i s o n t i m e , e v e r y t i m e , i n m y world. I give grateful thanks for this GOODNESS to share. I affirm and know it is so.
d a i ly a f f i r m at i o n s say out loud enthusiastically many times daily
P O S I T I V E A F F I R M AT I O N F O R FORGIVING & LETTING GO I , _ _ _ _ , a f f i r m t h e s e w o r d s o u t l o u d m a n y t i m e s d a i l y. Ye s t e r d a y e n d e d l a s t n i g h t . To d a y I b e g i n a n e w d a y. I r e l e a s e all negative experiences, people, and things that no longer serve me. I release negative thoughts and emotions from past experiences. I let them go! I send forgiveness to all, and in doing so I release their control over me. I allow selfh e a l i n g t o o c c u r. I a m h e a l e d . I r e l e a s e a l l n e e d s t o j u d g e and to control. I am tolerant, and I accept the differences in all people. I honor and accept my uniqueness, and I respect the uniqueness in others. My attention is in the moment. My future is filled with optimism. I am harmony and love in action. I live and let live. I give grateful thanks for this GOODNESS to share. I affirm and know it is so.
d a i ly a f f i r m at i o n s say out loud enthusiastically many times daily
P O S I T I V E A F F I R M AT I O N F O R T H E P E R F E C T O C C U P AT I O N I , _ _ _ _ , a f f i r m t h e s e w o r d s o u t l o u d m a n y t i m e s d a i l y. T h e p e r f e c t j o b t h a t I a m l o o k i n g f o r i s l o o k i n g f o r m e . We n o w meet! I am a wonderful employee. I give one hundred percent. I love what I do, and I do what I love. This opportunity r e w a r d s m e w i t h t h e p e r f e c t a m o u n t o f m o n e y, b e n e f i t s , a n d h o u r s . E a s i l y I c a n s u p p o r t m y f a m i l y a n d m y s e l f. M y e m p l o y e r t r e a t s m e p e r f e c t l y. We a r e a p e r f e c t f i t . E a c h d a y I g o t o w o r k w i t h e n t h u s i a s m a n d j o y. I g r o w a n d l e a r n d a i l y. I b r i n g g o o d n e s s t o a l l . I g i v e g r a t e f u l t h a n k s f o r t h i s GOODNESS to share. I affirm and know it is so.
HOW to
write an Affirmation
Happiness has to be thought. 1. G et into a q uie t, p e a c e f u l s ta te o f m in d . 2. Write down yo u r i n t e n t i o n , o r w h a t y o u d e s i r e, o n t h e t o p o f the pag e. 3. Know and be l i e v e t h a t t h i s w i l l a l s o b r i n g G O O D N E S S t o o thers. Write that d o wn , to o. 4. Write d own a s e n te n c e o r s h o r t p a ra g r a p h a n d cl a i m y ou r union with that w h i c h y o u d e s i r e ( e.g . , p e a c e, h a p p i n e s s , f ulfillment, love, s u c c e s s ). C a p ita lize th e s e wo r ds. 5. Write d own an d c la im th a t w h a t y o u w a n t i s a l r ea dy h er e now, in this pre s e n t m o m e n t . ( Yo u d o n’ t s a y y o u w a n t p e r f e c t health. You claim t h a t y o u a r e i n p e r f e c t h e a l t h n o w, e v e n i f y o u d o n’t feel it no w.) 6 . D enial o p tion— write d o w n a s e n te n c e o r tw o r el ea si n g t h e neg atio n or lack th a t y o u a re o v e r c o m in g . ( F or ex a m pl e, “ I release all fear, a ll d o u b t, a ll o b s ta c le s , a n d a l l n ega t i on .” )
HOW to
write an Affirmation
(Continued) 7. Always use p o s itiv e a n d o p tim is tic w o rd s in y ou r a f f i r m a t i on s excep t if you choo s e to u s e th e d e n ia l o p tio n . N ev er u se ph r a ses l ike “I’m g o ing to,” “In th e f u tu r e,” o r, “I h o p e.” U se ph r a ses like “I claim,” “I d e c l a r e,” a n d , “ I n o w a c c e p t .” A l s o, n e v e r u s e questions. Write y o u r a f f i r m a t i o n i n t h e p r e s e n t t e n s e a s i f i t alread y so. 8. A lways exp re s s y o u r g ra titu d e f o r th is GOO DN ES S i n ev er y affirmation. Read i t o u t l o u d a s m a n y t i m e s d a i l y a s n e e d e d , until you see the r e a l i z a t i o n i n y o u r p h y s i c a l w o r l d . S o m e t i m e s it truly helps if y o u c a n w a l k i n n a t u r e w h e n d o i n g a f f i r m a t i o n s . Commit affirmati o n s to m e m o r y. 9. Know the truth a b o u t y o u — y o u a r e p e r f e c t an d a w e s o m e j u s t the way you are. Wr ite th a t d o w n a n d c la im it, kn ow i t , f eel i t , accept it, and vis u a lize it. 10. Let it go an d “ w a t e r ” i t e v e r y d a y w i t h c o r r e c t t h i n k i n g , visualizing , and v e r b a lly c o n f irm in g it to b e s o.
chapter 13
the
Beginning What is your dream seed? Now the seed is in your garden. I wish you only the very best. God bless the United States Military! God bless you!
Americans and other nations are free to live their dream
seeds because of you, the warrior of the United States of America. Now live your dream seed! Just do your best. We are pulling for you. Thank you for creating a world of freedom so I can share this book with you. You have given humanity the finest gift, freedom. Now let these truths set you free.
God bless you.
- Joey O
Start making plans to
plant your Deam Seed Use this page to write notes to yourself, sketch, or just make a list of all the things you want out of life. Read and re-read the story of Joey O to discover what it takes to make your Dream Seed grow! Ple ase shar e The Dr eam Seed w i t h y o u r f r i e n d s .
Yo u c a n a n d w i l l a c c o m p l i s h y o u r D r e a m S e e d b y u s i n g y o u r intelligence intelligently! Go for it—you’ll have great fun!
Best to you always, and in all ways, your friend,
Joey
the Dream Seed Series®
by Joey O
The following are available directly through Joey O: Book No. 1
The Dream Seed a c o m pa n i o n V H S o r DV D i s a l s o ava i l a b l e Book No. 2
Seeds of Wisdom: A Son’s Promise Kept Book No. 3
Effortless Golf a c o m pa n i o n V H S o r DV D i s a l s o ava i l a b l e
Picture Perfect Golf (Instructional VHS/DVD) Book No. 4
Seeds of Friendship: 15 Lessons I Learned from Bob Hope That Will Change Your Life Book No. 5
Put Off Procrastination Now Joey O Show (Entertainment VHS/DVD) Book No. 6
The Dream Seed (Military Edition) For additional information, to order Joey O’s Boobs, videos, DVDs, or to schedule entertainment or speaking engagements, please contact: Joey O PO Box 1196 Cedar Rapids, Iows 52406-1196 Telephone (319) 431-8084, www.joeyogolf.com Large quantity discounts are available for schools, churches and organizations.
inspiration/self-help
You are a valuable spirit and worthy of living your dream. Plant your Dream Seed today! Go for it! It’s great fun!
For the many soldiers and their families who have so often put personal dreams on hold so that they could serve others, this books is both an inspiration - and a reminder, to also dream for themselves.
- General Stanley McChrystal, US Army (Ret.)
... We have already requested five copies to pass on to our granddaughters.
- Commander-in-Chief, President Gerald Ford and Mrs. Betty Ford
As golf fans, we love Joey’s act; but as parents and grandparents, we believe in and love his attitude in life.
- Commander-in-Chief, President George Bush and Mrs. Barbara Bush