In the Chinese calendar and astrological tables, 2014 is the Year of the Horse. According to those who believe in such things, all people have specific predilections and tendencies towards greater or lesser degrees of luck, as the outcome of events is, to a large degree, determined by when and under which astrological sign, a person is born.
While I would guess that ninety-eight percent of people, if asked, would say that they make important decisions and choices based on logic or thoughtful analysis, I would also say that most also believe in luck. If that’s not the case, then how is it that California collects nearly $2 billion per year from its citizens by selling lottery tickets? Why are Indian gaming casinos—which seem to be popping up all over the state—more popular than ever?
Do you believe in luck? Do you have a lucky number, or a superstitious tradition or ritual that you employ (or perhaps just think about) before you make an important decision or choice? Be honest. If you’re familiar with the Budweiser beer commercial that ends with the line: “It’s only weird if it doesn’t work,” you can believe what marketing research has discovered—that the same 98% that profess to employ logic when it comes to important decisions, also “knock on wood” before they make them.
Of course, some people make their own luck, as they are the ones who define it as: “The intersection, where and when opportunity and preparedness meet.”
Liz Hendrix, is just such a person, and in this issue of ALIVE (see Robin Fahr’s interview on page 24 ) you will learn about how this United States Dressage Federation (USDF) gold medalist, 4th level certified instructor, and internationally known horse trainer and seller, was at the top of her career when she was suddenly and unexpectedly struck with a life-altering disease that made it uncomfortable to be outdoors. That’s quite a restriction when your entire career revolves around horses, but with the discipline of a champion, Hendrix got back on a horse of a different color, to write and illustrate a wonderful children’s book; Angel and Evie: Catching a Unicorn.
So, go ahead and believe in luck, but be sure to remember to focus on making your own when it comes to things that matter most. Like Liz, you’ll then be one of those people who really do make lemonade out of lemons… who then sell that lemonade to the same people buying the lottery tickets!
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