Clark himself is a happy, energetic sort who sleeps only a few hours each night (routinely going to bed between 2 and 4 a.m.). He has read one book a week for 12 years. He coaches the defensive line for the Skyline High football team, which won the state title last fall, and donates his time to speak to military and church groups and to children's charities.

"He is very high energy," says Kelly. "He's someone who really walks the walk; he's not just talking about things, he's living it — the whole mental motivation, positive attitude thing. He believes in humor. When things are tense or when something happens he can always bring out the bright side. He's just a wonderful, fun person. He keeps everybody going. Living with Dan Clark ..."

"It's always an adventure!" Nikola chimes in.

"He does everything with passion," Kelly continues. "And he's very kind-hearted."

He has been known to pay electrical bills for people in need and once bought a gravesite plot for someone who couldn't afford it. When he found out a Utah prep basketball team was going to be in North Carolina, he arranged for a meeting with Roy Williams, the Tar Heels' coach."He's just an all-around nice guy," says Berardo.

Clark will continue speaking for years to come, sharing what he views as the keys to happiness, achievement and success. "There's no doubt he has a gift," says Kelly. "I've heard him for 25 years and I still laugh."

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E-mail: drob@desnews.com