Thomas Lee Unplugged: Insights & Inspiration

Finding closure and taking responsibility for the past is a journey that can lead to profound personal growth and healing. Some time ago, I took the significant step of reaching out to my ex-wife after many years apart. The motivation behind this decision was deeply rooted in my desire to apologize for the mistakes I made during our marriage, which ultimately contributed to our divorce. I realized it was important to acknowledge that I had not been the husband she needed or deserved, and this acknowledgment was crucial for my own peace of mind. After I sent my message, I experienced a mix of anxiety and hope as I awaited her response. When she finally replied, I could sense her surprise at my outreach. She expressed that she had long since moved on and had forgiven me, viewing our past as just that—past. This response was not what I had expected, but it brought a sense of relief. My motivation for this conversation was not to seek her forgiveness; she had already found her own path. In...

Making choices and decisions is a fundamental part of our lives, shaping our futures and influencing our paths in ways we often don’t realize. Whether it’s a small decision, like what to have for lunch, or a significant one, such as changing careers or moving to a new city, the choices we make can have lasting implications. It’s essential to approach these decisions thoughtfully and with care. Before diving into any sudden decisions, it’s wise to seek advice and counsel, especially when uncertainty clouds our judgment. Talking to friends, family, or mentors can provide valuable perspectives that we might not have considered. They can help us see the situation from different angles, making it easier to weigh the pros and cons. Taking the time to evaluate the potential outcomes is crucial. Creating a list of advantages and disadvantages can clarify our thoughts and guide us toward a more informed decision. This process not only helps in making choices that align with our values and goals...

Holidays evoke deep emotions for me as I reflect on past celebrations with family members who are no longer here. The cherished traditions that once brought us together have faded into mere memories. The impact of loss is profound, and it often feels overwhelming. Each family member contributed uniquely to our holiday experiences, and with their passing, those special moments have diminished, making holidays feel like just another day. I still carry the weight of each loss: my grandma in 2002, my stepdad in 2007, my mom in 2010, my sister and dad in 2021, and my stepmom in 2025. Each of these losses has left a void that is felt deeply during the holidays. I remember the warmth of their laughter, the comfort of their presence, and the love that filled our gatherings. Now, those memories serve as bittersweet reminders of what once was, and it often feels like the joy of the season has been overshadowed by grief. I urge everyone to appreciate their family while they can, as life can chang...

Today, I find myself reflecting on the profound phrase “iron sharpens iron.” This saying, rooted in the Bible in Proverbs 27:17, reminds us that just as iron sharpens iron, our interactions with one another can strengthen and refine us. In a world filled with challenges—financial instability, health issues, relationship struggles, and employment concerns—this principle resonates deeply, especially in times like these when everyone is carrying their own burdens. At the Charlotte Moose, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing this principle come to life. It’s a place where people gather not just for camaraderie, but for genuine support. In a time when so many are facing difficulties, the Moose stands as a beacon of hope and community. Here, I’ve seen friends rally around each other, offering encouragement and advice without judgment. It’s a space where open ears, open hearts, and open arms are more than just phrases; they are the foundation of our interactions. With everything weighing heav...

Years ago, a life coach emphasized the value of journaling, encouraging us to express both our positive and negative thoughts on paper. This simple act of writing can be a powerful tool for emotional release. Keeping emotions bottled up can be detrimental, and I've discovered that writing, particularly through blogging, can be quite therapeutic. By sharing my thoughts and feelings, I hope to inspire others, while also opening the door for encouragement in return. Blogging offers a unique way for individuals to process and articulate their emotions, enhancing self-awareness and potentially alleviating stress. It acts as a therapeutic outlet, aiding in the management of anxiety and depression by creating a space for self-reflection. When we put our thoughts into words, we often gain clarity and perspective on our experiences. This process not only helps us understand ourselves better but also allows us to share our journeys with others. Additionally, sharing personal stories through ...

A new work week is drawing nigh, and the weekend is coming to an end. As I reflect on the days ahead, I’m hoping for a positive week with no trials and tribulations. Tuesday will be a day worth looking forward to, as I’ll be installed and sworn in as a trustee at the Charlotte Moose. This upcoming milestone fills me with anticipation and a sense of responsibility, but it also reminds me of the importance of staying grounded when faced with challenges. In moments of difficulty, I often turn to the Serenity Prayer, a powerful mantra that has guided many through tough times. The words resonate deeply: “God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, courage to change the things I can, and wisdom to know the difference.” These words serve as a reminder that while life may throw unexpected obstacles in my path, I have the power to choose my response. When tough things happen, whether they are emotional or financial stresses, remembering the Serenity Prayer becomes essential...

📝When life throws its challenges at me from all directions, I find myself leaning heavily on the supportive community at the Charlotte Moose. It's a place that feels like a second home, where I can be myself, even on days when I’m not quite myself. The understanding I receive from everyone here is invaluable, especially as I navigate the financial stress that seems to loom over me like a dark cloud, and the never-ending grief from the loss of my dad. 📝Losing a parent, even though it’s been a few years, it is an experience that still reshapes your world in ways you never anticipate. The waves of sorrow can hit unexpectedly, leaving me feeling overwhelmed and isolated. Yet, when I walk into the 🫎Charlotte Moose🫎, I’m met with warm smiles and open arms. It’s comforting to know that I’m surrounded by people who get it—who understand that some days are harder than others. Their compassion reminds me that I’m not alone in this journey of grief and financial strain. 📝We’re all naviga...

Yesterday, in one of my many posts, I reflected on the family members I’ve lost in recent years. One lesson that we learn through life is that none of us is guaranteed our next breath; we’re always just one last breath away from death. This realization makes it crucial for us to take responsibility for our past mistakes, how we treated others, and the things we said. It’s important to act while we have the opportunity to express our sincere apologies to those we’ve hurt. While there may not be immediate reconciliation, we can find solace in knowing that we’ve taken a step towards making things right, allowing us to achieve a sense of peace within ourselves. Yesterday, I took that step by reaching out to my ex-wife to offer my apologies. I acknowledged that I had not taken my responsibilities as a husband seriously and had not been the partner she needed. Although there were various factors contributing to the end of our marriage, taking responsibility for my part in it felt essential. ...

One of my favorite musicians is John Williams, a true legend in the world of film music. His ability to capture emotions and create memorable themes is unparalleled, and one of his most iconic pieces is the Superman March. This exhilarating composition is famously associated with the Superman movies starring the late Christopher Reeve, and it never fails to give me chills. What I love most about the Superman March is how Williams masterfully blends brass and string instruments to create a dynamic and powerful sound. The bold brass sections soar with heroism, embodying the spirit of Superman himself, while the strings add a rich, sweeping quality that elevates the entire piece. It's a perfect representation of the character's strength and nobility, and you can almost feel the excitement building as the music progresses. Every time I listen to the Superman March, I'm transported to a world of adventure and heroism. Williams' genius lies in his ability to evoke such strong...