Fighting wrong with right

Special spotlight on Ne-Yo's efforts to fight relationship abuse by presenting a healthy model in his new song called "Heroes," which you can download for free at Macys.com/Ne-Yo. For each download, the clothing line Alfani will contribute $1 (up to $50,000) to support the RESPECT! Campaign.

See him perform it on Letterman (and remember the song sounds better in download version, so get a version at Macy's website, spread the word and pat yourself on the back for boosting a good cause!)

Knock, knock

You screen whom you open your front door to. Choose carefully whom you allow into your life. They are no less a threat to your sanity, well being, and happiness than a ne'er-do-well at your stoop is to your security.

Toxic relationships weaken you and render you less effective in daily life. They sap you of your energy, reducing you to robotic reflexes instead of pro-active postures. Even those relationships that may not be fully toxic but that do not help you grow into your ideal should be pruned.

Your time is not infinite. Time invested in those types of situations is squandered and irretrievable, an extended period of missed opportunities for growth and enrichment. Don't make the mistake of coasting through these relationships simply because they're not classified as a bio hazard or because they give fleeting moments of excitement or gratification. Long-term, you lose. Choose wisely whom you let into your life.

December 23, 2009