Richard Franz

Gentlemen, if you are thinking about doing something nice for a loved one for Valentine’s Day, I have one word of advice: Fuhggedaboutit! Why? The answer may surprise you.

Please understand; we should do nice things for our loved ones more often than we probably do. Every husband ought to give his wife an abundance of love, affection and attention! Treating your spouse to a meal at a nice restaurant, or giving a gift of flowers—these are good and welcome gifts.

World-renowned author and motivational speaker Zig Ziglar stated: "The more you express gratitude for what you have, the more likely you will have even more to express gratitude for."

Starting a new diet in a new year is an annual ritual for some and the beginning of something wonderful for others. The thought of a new year, a new body and new look is appealing and motivating. We may just want to look healthier, be healthier and live longer—and this is the year, 2013, when it all begins.

Another calendar year has come to a close. Many world events have come across our headlines; countries have elected new leaders, the sports world has crowned new champions, families celebrated promotions and graduations.

Did you go Christmas shopping this year? Did you spend money you have not yet earned on items that probably will not fill anyone’s needs, and will only temporarily satisfy a selfish envy or greed? Do you feel like Christmas is more about spending money than spending time with God and family?

Consumer counseling agencies anticipate a 25 percent increase in the number of people seeking help in January and February. Most of that traffic is driven to their doors by holiday bills that haunt consumers like the ghost of Christmas past.