In my life I have been accused of many things. I've even been called things that I would never mention in this forum or out loud. There have been times when I have actually upset people. Yes..believe it or not, I have the ability to upset some people.

But today, I am not here to talk about negative people, places or things. I simply want to share a word or two about encouragement in a time of discouragement.

I think that many real estate professionals have this natural ability to "put on a happy face." But many times there are some things going on within us that we rarely communicate.

During a recent speech at Toastmaster's, I touched on a topic that most people avoid. I talked about F.E.A.R. also known as false evidence appearing real.

As you know fear robs us of many things. It can rob us of our relationships with pepole and also stop us from advancing in our varying profession.

But, I have an answer to fear. That answer is faith. Now, now..I am not preaching or challenging belief systems here. I am simply encouraging you to grab a strong grip of faith during those times when you are not so sure of yourself or the people around you.

No matter how hard we try to convince ourselves, we are indeed living in troubled times. But as I explained to my fellow Toastmaster's...when all H-E double hockey sticks breaks out all around you, simply dig deep and grab some faith.

Most people give up and throw the towel in. But, don't be one of those people. Not sure if you have heard of Russell Simmons (hip hop mogul), but he has a new book out called "Do You!" One of the most profound things that he talks about in the book has to do with having faith in yourself.

When no one else can see or believe the vision that you have become a slave to. The vision and mission that you dream about and can't sleep because you need to crank out just one more great idea on the pad next to your bed stand, that crazy idea that is so far fetched that you have even been called 51/50. I dare you to dream it. I dare you to believe it. I dare you to use faith to get it.

So, in closing..I just want to encourage each and every person reading this..to simply keep the FAITH!