John-Talmage Mathis

“When the noise is gone, and the air is still . . .prepare for survival.”

“So I resort back to such ideology: we all have a calling. We all have an ultimate purpose. On that is laid before us by destiny or one that is positioned in the crosshairs of our long-term goals.”

“Life isn’t fair. It doesn’t make sense. This unfairness is felt by everyone, from the Las Vegas tunnel dweller all the way to the executive in the high-rise. To some, these “unfair” experiences become a chastening ball and chain attached for the remainder of life.”

“The ordeals of others . . .prepare us, andlater become the compass . . .in our time of ordeal.”

“All decisions we’ve come to accept as right or wrong are ingrained in us from the society in which we abide. Rights and wrongs are not universally known or transferable.”

“My first bit of advice is to not personalize a job loss. The cause for the dismissal was a business calculation. This is difficult for many to grasp; it’s difficult to accept that events just occur. Come to see this as an experience. Obviously not the most pleasant experience, but it is one that you’ll overcome.”

“Creativity and passion dwindle when hungry. Premiums for talent are easier to demand when desperation isn’t part of the equation. If I’m established, I can demand $350 an hour. If I’m desperate, I may accept $5.”

“Don’t forget:Ruts aren’t that much different . . .from graves.”

“Was I a fool to believe in fate or in some destined illusionary path? I don't know. But we all need something to believe in.”

“The truth is, living in any society is difficult. Those who become desperate with a fractured sense of security are much more prone to being taken advantaged of.”

“Preparation:allows you to prevent . . .the intensity of the ordeal.”

“Let your strength from the pastprovide proof of your abilities to . . .conquer the difficulties of the present.”

“Electricity, shelter, and a safe place to sleep . . .trump the need to preserve your credit score, orpurchase a new gizmo.”

“Life is about finding . . .what works best for you.”

“I've never felt that the American Dream was owed to me. I never felt that I was entitled to this Dream. This is why I laid the cobblestone before me for this Dream to be achieved.”

“Don’t allow past experiences to be forgotten.Hold them close.”