Retirement is often seen as a time to relax and take it easy, but for many individuals, continuing to work and stay active can be a more fulfilling and healthier option. Di Tran’s mom is a perfect example of this mentality, stating, “Don’t tell me to retire, nor tell me to stop working.” Many people may be quick to advise retirees to “just relax” and stay at home, but this can be a bad idea for aging parents. Instead, encouraging meaningful activities and work can lead to better health outcomes and a more fulfilling life.
Fun Church Activities for elders
Human biologists and experts have found that a sedentary lifestyle can have negative effects on both physical and mental health. Dr. Herman Pontzer states, “The human body is designed for activity, and without it, we experience a range of health problems. We need movement to keep our muscles, bones, and cardiovascular systems healthy.” A study published in the Journal of Aging and Health found that sedentary behavior is associated with negative health outcomes such as obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease.
In addition, without a sense of purpose, retirees can feel aimless and disconnected. The transition from a structured work schedule to a life of leisure can be challenging. National Geographic Fellow and longevity expert Dr. Dan Buettner suggests, “Having a purpose in life is critical for our mental health and wellbeing. For many people, work provides a sense of purpose and structure. Without it, retirees can struggle to find meaning in their day-to-day lives.”
Fun community activities for elders
Instead of urging parents to retire, it is crucial to encourage meaningful work and activities that provide a sense of purpose. Retirement does not necessarily mean a complete withdrawal from work; it can be an opportunity to explore new interests and passions, pursue hobbies, or even start a new business. Continuing to work and stay active can have positive impacts on both physical and mental health outcomes. As Di Tran was advised, “Don’t tell your parents to just relax, and just stay home and rest or just eat. Bad bad idea for old age.”
The pursuit of comfort in retirement may not be the best option for our long-term health. Instead, encouraging meaningful work and activities can lead to better health outcomes and a more fulfilling life. As Di Tran’s mom suggests, don’t urge retirees to retire; instead, encourage them to continue working on activities that provide a sense of purpose and keep them active.
Learning is an ongoing process that never stops. We are constantly seeking knowledge, and we do so in different ways. However, the importance of being receptive to learning cannot be overemphasized. It’s crucial to acknowledge that no one can be taught something they are not ready or willing to learn.
Di Tran, the author of “Drop the ME and Focus on the OTHERS” and soon-to-be-released “Drop the FEAR and Focus on the FAITH,” knows this concept well. He was taught about the growth mindset, the importance of serving others, and thinking rich by his mother for years. However, it wasn’t until Di had read over 200 books on mindfulness that he fully understood and embraced these teachings. This serves as a powerful reminder that we must have a foundation and an open heart to be able to accept knowledge and apply it in our lives.
Di Tran’s story is one of perseverance and self-discovery. For 41 years, he searched for the key to unlock his potential and embrace a growth mindset. His mother’s teachings were valuable, but it took time for him to internalize them fully.
Di Tran’s journey of learning and growth is highlighted by his lunch with his family for the weekend. Di’s mother once again reminded him to focus on others, think rich, and live rich. However, for the first time, her words “rang the bell” with him. He realized that all the mindfulness books he had read emphasized the same ideas his mother had been teaching him for years. This realization gave him a newfound appreciation for his mother’s teachings and a deeper understanding of the power of mindfulness.
Di Tran’s story emphasizes the importance of being receptive to learning and having an open heart. We must set a solid foundation for ourselves before we can expect to learn effectively. This involves developing a positive mindset, being receptive to change, and having a growth-oriented attitude. We must take ownership of our learning journey and lay the groundwork for our personal and professional growth.
Di Tran’s story serves as an inspiration to all of us that with the right mindset and a willingness to learn, we can achieve great things and make a positive impact in the world. We must actively seek knowledge with an open heart and an eagerness to grow. Learning is a lifelong process, and it is never too late to start or too early to embrace the idea of learning actively.
Self-improvement is a vital aspect of personal growth and development. It involves making conscious efforts to enhance one’s abilities, knowledge, and behavior to achieve a better version of oneself. In this pursuit, one can strive to be better than their previous self, rather than comparing themselves to others. As the famous quote goes, “Better is best when it’s better than self before.”
This quote highlights the importance of setting personal goals and continuously improving oneself to achieve them. Self-improvement requires self-awareness and a willingness to acknowledge one’s weaknesses and work on them. The process of self-improvement involves continuous learning, practicing new skills, and seeking feedback to refine oneself. As author and motivational speaker, Brian Tracy once said, “Personal development is a major time-saver. The better you become, the less time it takes you to achieve your goals.”
Books such as “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People” by Stephen Covey and “Atomic Habits” by James Clear provide practical strategies for self-improvement. Covey’s book emphasizes the importance of developing habits that align with one’s values and goals. It encourages readers to take a proactive approach to their lives, focus on what they can control, and continuously work towards self-improvement. Clear’s book, on the other hand, focuses on the power of small, incremental changes in building better habits that lead to significant improvements in one’s life.
In addition to striving for self-improvement, it’s also essential to be mindful of one’s behavior towards others. The second quote, “Be a little less interfere and a little less notice-me,” emphasizes the need to practice humility and avoid imposing oneself on others. This quote implies that self-improvement should not be at the expense of others’ comfort or well-being.
The book “The Power of Now” by Eckhart Tolle highlights the importance of being present in the moment and focusing on the needs of others. Tolle emphasizes that the ego is responsible for selfish behavior and encourages readers to practice mindfulness and compassion towards others. Similarly, the book “How to Win Friends and Influence People” by Dale Carnegie provides practical tips for building meaningful relationships based on empathy, understanding, and respect for others.
Self-improvement is a continuous process that involves personal growth and development. It’s essential to strive to be better than one’s previous self and continuously work towards achieving personal goals. However, it’s also crucial to be mindful of one’s behavior towards others and practice humility and compassion. Books such as “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People,” “Atomic Habits,” “The Power of Now,” and “How to Win Friends and Influence People” provide practical strategies for self-improvement and building meaningful relationships based on empathy and respect for others. As author and speaker Jim Rohn once said, “The only way things are going to change for you is when you change.”
In “Drop the ME and Focus on the OTHERS,” Di Tran provides a compelling argument for the importance of focusing on others and serving them rather than being self-centered. The book emphasizes the benefits of prioritizing others in all aspects of life, including relationships, career, and personal growth.
Throughout the book, Di Tran emphasizes the need to take action and avoid excessive talk. This aligns with his mother’s quote, “Talk less and just do.” This quote highlights the importance of taking practical steps towards serving others rather than just talking about it.
“Drop the ME and Focus on the OTHERS” is a thought-provoking book that provides practical insights and strategies for serving others and achieving personal growth. Di Tran’s emphasis on action and practical steps aligns with his mother’s quote, emphasizing the importance of taking tangible steps towards serving others rather than just talking about it. This book serves as a reminder that when we shift our focus from ourselves to others, we not only improve our own lives but also make a positive impact on the world around us.
The foundation of life can be summarized in two simple words: purpose and appreciation. Purpose in life is the driving force that keeps us motivated and focused, while appreciation of life allows us to enjoy the journey and find meaning in our experiences. When these two elements are combined, they form a powerful recipe for true happiness and joy in life.
Purpose in life can be different for each individual. It can be a career, a hobby, a personal goal, or even a simple act of kindness. Whatever the purpose may be, it is important to have a clear understanding of what it is and why it matters to you. When you have a purpose in life, you have a reason to wake up every day and work towards something that you find meaningful and fulfilling.
However, purpose alone is not enough to achieve true happiness and joy in life. Appreciation of life is equally important. This means taking the time to recognize and be grateful for the blessings in our lives, no matter how big or small they may be. It means finding joy in the present moment and cherishing the memories that we create along the way.
Here are five quotes and books that further illustrate the importance of purpose and appreciation in life:
“The purpose of life is not to be happy. It is to be useful, to be honorable, to be compassionate, to have it make some difference that you have lived and lived well.” – Ralph Waldo Emerson
This quote emphasizes the importance of having a purpose that goes beyond personal happiness. It encourages us to strive for something that will make a positive impact on the world around us.
“The happiest people don’t have the best of everything, they just make the best of everything they have.” – Unknown
This quote highlights the importance of appreciation in finding happiness. It reminds us that true happiness comes from within, and that it is possible to find joy in even the most challenging circumstances.
Man’s Search for Meaning by Viktor E. Frankl
This book is a powerful testament to the importance of purpose in life. It tells the story of the author’s experiences as a prisoner in a Nazi concentration camp, and how he was able to find meaning and purpose in the midst of unimaginable suffering.
The Book of Joy: Lasting Happiness in a Changing World by Dalai Lama and Desmond Tutu
Happiness in the moment and now
This book offers insights and wisdom from two of the world’s most respected spiritual leaders. It emphasizes the importance of finding joy in the present moment and cultivating a sense of gratitude and appreciation for all that life has to offer.
The Power of Purpose: Find Meaning, Live Longer, Better by Richard Leider
This book explores the connection between purpose and longevity, and how having a clear sense of purpose can lead to a happier, healthier, and more fulfilling life. It offers practical strategies for discovering your own purpose and living a life of meaning and significance.
Purpose and appreciation are the foundation of a truly happy and fulfilling life. By identifying our purpose and cultivating a sense of appreciation for all that life has to offer, we can find joy and meaning in even the most challenging circumstances. With the help of these quotes and books, we can gain a deeper understanding of the importance of purpose and appreciation, and learn practical strategies for living a life that is both meaningful and fulfilling.
In conclusion, we have explored the importance of purpose and appreciation as the foundation of a fulfilling life. However, achieving this state of mind can be challenging, especially when we are plagued by negative thoughts and feelings. That is why I would like to encourage you to check out Di Tran’s books: “Drop the ME and Focus on the OTHERs” and “Drop the FEAR and Focus on the FAITH”. These books offer practical strategies and insights for overcoming negative thoughts and focusing on what really matters in life – our relationships with others and our faith in ourselves and the world around us. By taking the time to read or listen to these books, you can gain valuable insights into how to live a more fulfilling and purpose-driven life. So, I invite you to take action today and invest in your personal growth by exploring these powerful resources.
JusticeFest is an annual event presented by Churchill Downs, Humana, and Park Community Credit Union that brings together Jefferson County students from grades 3-12 to pitch solutions to community-wide issues. This year, JusticeFest was produced as part of the Derby Equity and Community Initiative, with Kentucky Derby Festival, Churchill Downs, and Humana.
Style ‘N Go – Braiding for Student
Among the panelists at JusticeFest was Di Tran, the author of “Drop the ME and Focus on the OTHERS” and the soon-to-be-released book “Drop the FEAR and Focus on the FAITH”. As a business owner and a leader in the community, Di Tran understands the importance of empowering young people to create positive change.
Di Tran shared his story and experiences as a business owner with the young leaders at JusticeFest. He is the owner of Louisville Beauty Academy, a beauty school that has graduated over 1000 students, and Louisville Institute of Technology, an IT apprenticeship program that prepares students for the workforce from day one.
NewComer Academy – JCPS Students
Di Tran was impressed by the creativity, intelligence, and passion of the young leaders at JusticeFest. He was honored to be a panelist and learn from them. In his upcoming book, “Drop the FEAR and Focus on the FAITH,” Di Tran emphasizes the importance of having faith in oneself and in God. He believes that with faith, anything is possible, and one can overcome any obstacle. The young leaders showcased at JusticeFest embody this message, as they tackle community-wide issues with confidence and conviction.
JusticeFest is an event that provides opportunities for young people to showcase their talents and ideas. It allows them to learn from business and community leaders, mentors, advisers, teachers, and other professionals. Di Tran is grateful for events like JusticeFest that empower young people and inspire positive change in the community.
JusticeFest is an important event that showcases the creativity and passion of young leaders in the community. Di Tran’s participation in JusticeFest and his appreciation for the young leaders highlight the importance of empowering young people to create positive change in their communities.
Bird’s nest is a delicacy in many parts of the world, particularly in East and Southeast Asia, where it has been prized for its health benefits for centuries. Made from the saliva of swiftlets, small bird species native to Southeast Asia, bird’s nest is said to have a variety of health benefits, ranging from boosting the immune system to improving skin health. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the health benefits of bird’s nest and how to use it.
Rich in Nutrients
One of the main reasons why bird’s nest is so good for health is that it is packed with nutrients. It is a rich source of proteins, carbohydrates, and essential amino acids, including alanine, aspartic acid, glycine, and glutamic acid. Bird’s nest also contains a range of minerals, including calcium, iron, potassium, and magnesium, as well as trace elements such as selenium and zinc.
Boosts Immunity
Studies have shown that bird’s nest contains compounds that can help to boost the immune system. Specifically, it contains glycoproteins, which have been found to enhance the production of white blood cells, the body’s primary defense against infection and disease.
Improves Skin Health
Another benefit of bird’s nest is its ability to improve skin health. It contains a range of nutrients that are essential for healthy skin, including collagen, a protein that helps to keep skin firm and elastic. Studies have shown that consuming bird’s nest can help to improve skin hydration and elasticity, reduce the appearance of wrinkles, and protect against UV-induced skin damage.
May Improve Respiratory Health
Bird’s nest has long been used in traditional Chinese medicine as a remedy for respiratory ailments such as coughs and asthma. Recent studies have shown that bird’s nest contains compounds that have anti-inflammatory properties, which may help to alleviate respiratory symptoms.
How to Use Bird’s Nest
Bird’s nest can be consumed in a variety of ways, including:
Soup: One of the most popular ways to consume bird’s nest is in a soup. It is often added to chicken or pork broth, along with other ingredients such as mushrooms and ginger.
Desserts: Bird’s nest is also commonly used in desserts, such as custards and puddings. It can be mixed with milk or coconut milk and sweetened with sugar or honey.
Drinks: Bird’s nest can also be consumed in the form of a drink. It is often mixed with fruit juice or tea and served cold.
When purchasing bird’s nest, it is important to look for high-quality products that are free from contaminants. It is also important to follow proper preparation techniques to ensure that the bird’s nest is safe to consume.
Bird’s nest is a nutrient-rich food that offers a range of health benefits. Its ability to boost the immune system, improve skin health, and alleviate respiratory symptoms make it a valuable addition to any diet. With proper preparation and consumption, bird’s nest can be a delicious and healthy food that is enjoyed around the world.
If you’re interested in incorporating bird’s nest into your diet to enjoy its numerous health benefits, contact Kentucky Pharmacy today! You can order this nutrient-rich delicacy by texting 502-345-0369 or sending an email to [email protected]. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to try this traditional remedy that has been prized for centuries!
Viet Bao Louisville - Di Tran - Drop the ME and Focus on the OTHERS - BOOK by Di Tran
SUMMARY
In this section of Chapter one of “Drop the ME and Focus on the OTHERS” by Di Tran, the author recounts a childhood experience that shaped his self-determination and will to protect his family. His mother insisted they retrieve a dirty mattress from a dumpster despite his initial hesitation. He learned the value of determination and the importance of family from his mother’s actions. Later, their good fortune continued when Catholic Charities offered to provide movers to help them transport any items they needed to their new location. The author reflects on the lessons he learned from his mother about the will of God and the importance of effort in achieving success.
Di Tran – Drop the ME and Focus on the OTHERS – BOOK
“Mom, it’s not like we never slept on a dirt floor before. We were dirt poor, and I used to sleep on the ground in our mud hut. How hard can it get? We can handle this and sleep on the floor without a mattress.” I tried to comfort Mom about not having a mattress for us to sleep on, but more importantly, I was trying to avoid the activity of digging through the dumpsters. I realize that poor was not the point, now that I reflect on and understand why I hesitated. I meant what I said about being poor, and it was truthful, and it would have been totally fine. However, I was uncomfortable digging through trash. As poor as we had been in the past, there was never a time that we dug through trash hunting for items. First, Vietnam was and still is a third-world country, and especially in a poor village like ours, there was no government agency that picked up trash, nor did the people pile their trash in one place. Second, poor people’s trash in Vietnam would never have generated anything worth taking. Third, the idea of digging through trash is the lowest of the low in our mindset, and it is hard to fathom. At the age of 12, I already knew how this would affect me in terms of my self-esteem and perceived status in life. There could have been nothing worse for me at that moment in time. This was the pivotal point that made me who I am today.
Firmly and carefully, Mom stated, “No, Son. At the least, my children will have what other children have, even if it is of the worst quality, “ in this case, a mattress. “I will not settle for less than this,” she responded to my hesitation. Today, as I write this book, I now have three children of my own, ages five, six, and seven. As a parent, I strongly feel what my mom meant at that moment. Her love for her children and family has always surpassed her fear of self-doubt, public criticism, and people’s thoughts of her. Most importantly, she was determined to make the best out of a bad situation, and she knew what that minimum was: a mattress. That was her driving force, her only thought, and nothing could stop her from achieving that goal. I learned self-determination from Mom, and the level of this became explosive when her children’s interests were concerned in comparison to the norm. Not having a mattress was not an option, and so I tagged along with Mom to the dumpster.
Di Tran and His Mom – Dig the Dumpster for their first mattress in USA
The dumpster was a few blocks from our house, and Mom and I walked there in the cold weather; there was even light snow falling. We were both lightly dressed, wearing our tropical layered clothes, but we did not feel physical discomfort, only the mental heaviness of what we were about to do, dig in the dumpster. For the first time in my life, I felt like an adult man at this age of 12. I was on a mission with Mom, for something that we would hopefully only have to do only once in our lifetime. I felt a strong sense of determination that I inherited from her, and this made me happy. I also began to recognize at this exact moment who I must become, a man of the family with a strong level of determination and will to protect my family at all levels. There was no shame, no hardship, and no criticism that would interfere with the focus we had on our family, as Mom and I walked to the dumpster. “There it is, Son. Get in there and pull it out for me. I will pull it and you push from inside.” Mom directed me to the dumpster where the dirty mattress was. It was wet, heavy, dirty, and stained gray. It smelled of trash and urine. I no longer hesitated and put forth all my effort to get the mattress out from the dumpster and drag it to the temporary home, which we would soon have to exit and move into the Americana apartments. I accomplished something significant for myself, my mom and my family, and I felt quite satisfied. “We did it! Our family now has a mattress!” Mom exhaled with a smile, and seemingly lightened heart.
Unexpectedly, our Vietnamese translator from Catholic Charities came over to the house where my mom and I stood after our accomplished mission. The translator looked at us and glanced at the dirty mattress and spoke, “Catholic Charities has decided that this temporary house that you are staying in now, will no longer be used for this purpose after your family leaves. Therefore, they will throw away everything in this house after you leave. You are free to take anything you need to the Americana Apartments.” “Anything and everything we can use?” Mom asked the translator. “Yes, but not only that. Catholic Charities will provide the movers with trucks to help you move them into your new location, since they would have to throw all these away anyway.” “Isn’t this the will of God, Son?” Mom asked me when retelling this story. “Son, remember God will never give you more than what you can handle.” She taught us about faith in God. “But also know that life is about giving all the effort you can by maximizing your brain and physical strength for good; then God will take on the rest.” I gain greater comprehension of Mom’s teachings as I grow and live through life’s challenges. I can only recognize God through doing, not sitting, praying, or waiting for things to happen. Only when I maximize my God-given capability, can I say: “God, now you do your magic based on what I did.” God never seems to never fail me and my family.
The milestone age of 40 is a subject of cultural and societal beliefs and sayings that have evolved over time. Here are some of the most common beliefs and their meanings:
“Life begins at 40″ – This popular saying suggests that 40 is the age when life starts anew. It implies that people at 40 feel more self-aware and are better equipped to embark on new adventures. According to the author Sarah Ban Breathnach, “We have learned to listen more closely to our intuition, to follow our dreams, and to take action on things that we are passionate about.”
“Over the hill” – This phrase is used humorously to describe someone who has passed their prime. The saying implies that people at 40 are past their peak and are now on the downward slope of their lives. However, this can be disputed, as many successful people such as J.K. Rowling, Jeff Bezos, and Elon Musk accomplished their biggest achievements after 40.
“Midlife crisis” – This phrase suggests that around the age of 40, many individuals experience a period of introspection and questioning about their life choices and goals. This term was first coined by psychoanalyst Elliot Jaques in 1965 to describe the sudden realization of one’s mortality and the resulting changes in priorities. In fact, many books such as “The Second Half of Life” by Angeles Arrien and “Man’s Search for Meaning” by Viktor E. Frankl, explore this subject in depth.
“Forty and fabulous” – This phrase celebrates reaching 40 and suggests that it can be a time when people feel confident, accomplished, and proud of what they have achieved. For many, 40 is a time of empowerment, as they’ve gained wisdom, knowledge, and experience over the years. According to the author Laura Fraser, “As I got older, I realized that what I wanted was more powerful than what I was afraid of.”
It’s important to note that while these sayings reflect common attitudes and beliefs about the age of 40, everyone’s experience of turning 40 is unique. Some may feel invigorated by this age, while others may feel anxious. Therefore, it’s important to approach the milestone with a positive outlook and embrace the opportunities it brings.
The cultural and societal beliefs and sayings about age 40 are varied and reflect a range of attitudes towards this milestone age. While some may suggest that 40 is over the hill or signals a midlife crisis, others view it as a time for new beginnings, empowerment, and self-reflection. Ultimately, the meaning of turning 40 is subjective and depends on the individual’s life experiences and attitude.
Di Tran’s 41st birthday marks a new chapter in his life, as he reflects on his past accomplishments and looks forward to new adventures. Having recently authored the book “Drop the ME and Focus on the OTHERs,” and soon releasing “Drop the FEAR and Focus on the FAITH,” Di Tran has gained valuable insights and wisdom that he hopes to share with others.
While there are many cultural and societal beliefs surrounding age 40, Di Tran believes that it’s a time to focus on others and let go of self-centeredness. In “Drop the ME and Focus on the OTHERs,” he encourages readers to shift their perspective and consider the needs and well-being of those around them. This shift in focus can lead to greater empathy, stronger relationships, and a more fulfilling life.
Di Tran’s upcoming book, “Drop the FEAR and Focus on the FAITH,” further explores the idea of letting go of self-doubt and trusting in a higher power. As he approaches his 41st year, Di Tran believes that it’s essential to have faith in oneself and in the universe, even in the face of uncertainty and challenges. This attitude can lead to greater resilience, a more positive outlook, and a deeper sense of purpose.
For Di Tran, turning 41 is not about being “over the hill” or experiencing a midlife crisis. Instead, it’s a time to celebrate all that he has accomplished and to look forward to new opportunities for growth and learning. He believes that everyone’s experience of turning 40 will be different, and he hopes that his books can offer guidance and inspiration to those who are seeking a new perspective on life.
In summary, Di Tran’s 41st birthday is a time of reflection and growth, as he shares his insights and experiences with others through his writing. By focusing on others and letting go of fear, he hopes to inspire others to live a more fulfilling and purposeful life.
Di Tran – Q/A for an Author’s books
When you first moved to the United States, what did the American Dream mean to you?
To me, it meant the freedom to express myself without fear of government suppression. It also meant the ability to share my knowledge and beliefs, as well as pursue economic opportunities. I was grateful for the fact that what I own belongs to me, and not to the government.
For how long have you been living in the USA?
28 years since 1995
What was the biggest challenge you faced when you first arrived in the USA?
The language barrier and the pressure of adjusting to all the new things.
What was your experience like when you first arrived?
Although we knew that the country would offer a better life, it wasn’t exactly as we had imagined in our dreams. Starting with only $400 in our pockets for a family of 5, and without being able to communicate in English with anyone, we were faced with a daunting challenge that was both worrying and challenging. Nonetheless, we remained optimistic and grateful for the opportunities that awaited us in this new country.
Can you describe your journey to the USA?
I came with my cousin who is mixed of an American military personnel. His son was coming home to the USA, and he kindly took us along since our family had helped raise him.
Have you achieved your American Dream?
Absolutely, every day since we first landed here. For example, we ate our first hotdog and burger, even if it was a new experience. We slept on our first mattress, even if it was dirty. We saw snow for the first time walking out of the airport and met people from many other nationalities in the first week. It felt like the whole world was in Louisville, KY, USA.
What challenges did you face to achieve your American Dream?
Although hard work is required everywhere, hard work in America is easier because we knew that good results would come. In Vietnam, effort given did not always lead to good results in a communist country. Therefore, hard work was not a challenge for us to achieve our American Dream.
How did you overcome the challenges you faced in pursuing your American Dream and what surprised you the most?
The key was to constantly learn and take action, always being in survival mode. We anticipated that everything would be new, so nothing was truly surprising, but of course, with every challenge and hard work, there were moments of failure. However, we learned to embrace those failures and use them as opportunities to grow and move forward in life.
What skills did you have to learn to achieve your American Dream?
Education was key to achieving our American Dream. We had to learn new skills and gain knowledge through both life education and formal education. Fortunately, we were able to take advantage of free secondary education and partially free post-secondary education (college) for low-income individuals.
What challenges did you face in becoming a professional in the USA?
Language was the biggest challenge for me, and my inherent shyness made it even more difficult.
How did you make professional connections in the USA?
I made a concerted effort to be out and about, and I worked hard to build credibility by serving others. By doing this, I was able to establish relationships and make connections with professionals.
What did you do to connect with the right professionals?
As I moved along, I learned to filter and identify the professionals who could best help me achieve my goals within the limited time I had available.
How did you achieve your American Dream?
I achieved my American Dream through hard work and continuous learning.
How did you become successful?
I became successful by never giving up on working hard and learning constantly. Making progress towards my goals gave me happiness.
In your opinion, what mindset is necessary for someone pursuing the American Dream to learn, survive, connect, grow and succeed in the USA?
The mindset of an American Dreamer is all about taking action. Instead of just thinking about things, you have to learn and apply what you learn.
What advice would you give to someone who is eager to move to the US to experience the American Dream?
I would advise them that the USA is a great country to live in, and it offers many opportunities for success. However, success comes from hard work, and if you’re not willing to put in the effort, then it doesn’t matter where you are in the world.
How would you describe the things in your life that you appreciate and feel thankful for?
To put it simply, I am grateful for life itself. The fact that I am alive is a blessing, and this holds true no matter where you are in the world. However, it is easier to appreciate this in America because basic needs such as food, education, and time are more readily available.
References to Di Tran’s Interview
Rotary Club of Louisville – Di Tran Presenter – The Debt to be Paid: Giving Back and Paying It Forward
I am supporting my good friend Selma Jacinto Dominigos with her current and future books
I am looking forward to Selma Jacinto Domingos’ second book.
Liz Curtis Higgs is a bestselling author, speaker, and Bible teacher. She was born in Kentucky, USA, in 1953, and grew up in a Christian family. She has written more than 30 books, including non-fiction works on topics such as biblical studies, women’s issues, and Christian living, as well as novels and children’s books.
Liz Curtis Higgs
Higgs is perhaps best known for her Bad Girls of the Bible series, which explores the lives of women in the Bible who made mistakes or broke the rules, such as Eve, Delilah, and Bathsheba. Her books have sold millions of copies and have been translated into numerous languages.
In addition to her writing, Higgs is a popular speaker and Bible teacher, and has traveled extensively to speak at conferences and events. She has also appeared on numerous television and radio programs. Higgs currently lives in Louisville, Kentucky, with her husband, Bill, and their two children.
Di Tran’s Meeting with Liz Curtis Higgs
Meeting Liz Curtis Higgs was a truly wonderful experience, and it was clear that God was working through both of us during our conversation. We talked about surrendering to God and the moment when we each became aware of the presence of the divine in our lives. Liz shared a profound insight with me, that our hearts, souls, and cores are like empty vacuum spaces that are constantly seeking to be filled with something.
As humans, we often seek to fill this emptiness with material things, food, alcohol, negativity, anger, power, success, or any number of other things. But what we fill up with truly matters, and the answer to our seeking is much simpler than we might imagine.
Di Tran + Liz Curtis Higgs
The answer has always been with us, as God is within each of us. We have everything we need, including the most powerful of all things, our spirit, which is in harmony with the infinite divine universe. The challenge is that we often don’t let our spirit do its job, as we try to control everything in our lives.
What we need to do is surrender and let go of our self, so that our spirit can run its course naturally and manifest the things we desire. This is in alignment with the idea of “Drop the FEAR and Focus on the FAITH,” which I explore in my upcoming book, the guide to faith by understanding fear and worry, and surrendering them so that God has the space to work through us.
It’s clear that filling the emptiness with things outside in the world doesn’t fill it. We need God as the energy to fill that space, and surrendering to God allows this energy to flow freely.
I’m so grateful for my conversation with Liz, and for the wisdom she shared with me. It’s clear that God is working through her, and through each of us, in ways that we might not even realize.
