A Noteworthy Tradition

      As we approach Christmas, I hope it will be in the true spirit of this sacred season.  It's fun to buy, wrap and share gifts.  It's great to be with family and friends, to enjoy parties, make neighbor gifts, send cards and bask in the soft light of a decorated Christmas tree.  These, however, are all trappings.  The celebrating, gift giving, tree trimming, and greetings of the season, hopefully, will turn our thoughts and hearts to the true reason for this very special holiday: remembering the birth and life of our Savior.

     I must admit, I'm as thrilled as anyone by the wonderful carols, the smell of pine, and the thoughtful expressions of love that I receive.  However, I hope my heart will rejoice, many times over, in the greatest gift any of us could ever receive: the gift of the life, example, and ultimately the sacrifice and resurrection of our Savior, Jesus Christ.  

    

     As I think of Him, however, I also think of how far short of His example I fall.  So, in considering the best gift I could give this holiday season, my heart must turn to thoughts of being more kind, less critical, less thoughtless in my speech, and more Christ-like in my daily conduct. 

    

     In my daughter's home there is a noteworthy tradition.  The children begin the month of December with a small empty cradle.  As they do loving deeds and care for others they are allowed to put pieces of straw into the cradle.  The object is to have the cradle filled with straw by Christmas Eve so that the Christ child can be placed within its warm, snug confines.  Each of her three older children delight in thinking of ways to show their love and earn pieces of straw.  Each is honing his or her ability to serve others and to act in Christ-like ways.  What a delightful and meaningful tradition--a tradition from my son-in-law's family, not mine, though I wish it had been!  But I am most pleased that it has been introduced to my grandchildren, and is being carried on to bless their lives with the true spirit of Christmas, which is, of course, the Spirit of Christ.  What a wonderful way to express appreciation to the Savior for His life, and to carry on His example of loving service.

     As we prepare for and celebrate this holiday season, I hope we will take time to think of the needs of others.  I hope we will also take time for Peace.  Peace, quiet, contemplation, and time to express, from our heart, our thankfulness to Jesus Christ for His precious gifts to us.  They are the most important we have received and ever will receive.  His gifts, after all, are what Christmas is really all about!!

TODAY'S AWESOME BLESSING:  I spent the weekend feeling really miserable with body aches and a headache.  On Monday my husband and I had to go out in the late afternoon to take care of some appointments.  When we returned there was a box on the back steps.  On top was written, in the hand of a child, "To a sick grandma.  Love you."  Inside were notes from my grandchildren, my daughter and her husband.   When I called to express thanks, my daughter made certain I knew this was the result of her oldest son's thoughtfulness.  He had instigated the idea of writing the notes and had delivered them himself.  Was this just to earn a little straw?  Knowing this sweet young man, I doubt it.  How fortunate I felt to be the recipient of so much love!!

A Few More Thoughts of Thanks

     I hope all of you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving celebration, and that there are plenty of leftovers to keep you from having to do any serious cooking for a few days.  That, after all, is one of the greatest joys of Thanksgiving!  
     We had a wonderful time with family, and the grand kids always give us reasons to laugh.  There were also many messages of thanks from friends and family via Facebook, e-mail, personal visits and phone.  In short, we had a very special day.  A day blessed by those we love!  Most especially, it was a day to thank God for all His gifts.  May we never forget where our bounty and blessings come from!  One friend posted this on her Facebook, and I want to second her thought. 

     As we leave this Thanksgiving behind, looking forward to next year's opportunity to again give thanks with family and friends, I hope we will carry its spirit into everything we do, noticing each gift that comes, expressing heartfelt gratitude, and recognizing how very blessed we are every day of the year! 


TODAY'S  INSPIRED  QUOTATION:
"In ordinary life we hardly realize that we receive a great deal more than we give, and that it is only with gratitude that life becomes rich." Dietrich Bonhoeffer

I Can Almost Smell the Turkey Roasting

     I'm zeroing in on the day, just counting the hours.  Tomorrow will be overflowing with good food, great company and abundant laughter.  Thanksgiving is just a day away and I'm as excited to be preparing for it as I will be to actually sit down with family and enjoy the fruits of our labor and God's blessings.

     Today will be consumed with baking pies and bread, and spending some time saying, "thanks" to at least a few friends who have blessed my life during this past year.  No working today, just enjoying the privilege of  time to do what I love best--be at home doing homey things.  I suppose if every day were like this I wouldn't appreciate it so much.  But every day isn't, so it's a treat and a blessing that I plan to thoroughly enjoy.

      To my family who can't be here--I am so grateful for your good lives and I miss you all so very much!  To my friends who live far away--I am as thankful for you as ever, and wish the distance that separates us could vanish, and that you could be a very present part of this festive season.  To my friends and family who are near--thank you for the time you allow us to share, the memories you are helping to make, and the love you so generously express each day of the year.  To my readers, both in the United States and in some dozen foreign countries, I appreciate your visiting this site so regularly.  I hope it helps to inspire your own sense of gratitude and that it brings all of our hearts a little closer to a recognition of just how much we are all alike.  Thank you for your support.  I am overwhelmed with blessings, and don't know nearly enough words to express the gratitude I feel.

     Thornton Wilder wrote, "We can only be said to be alive in those moments when our hearts are conscious of our treasures."  Perhaps that is why Thanksgiving is so special, why we look forward to it with such delight, and why it is, in so many ways, a day set apart. Because it is a day when we put other things aside and become keenly aware, with all our heart, of family, friends and all our blessings.  Indeed, on this one blessed day, we are conscious of our treasures!    
      So, no matter what our trials or struggles, on Thanksgiving, may we truly be "alive" and grateful for the gifts that bless our lives!

TODAY'S  INSPIRED  QUOTATION:  The Pilgrims made seven times more graves than huts.  No Americans have been more impoverished than these who, nevertheless, set aside a day of thanksgiving.  H.U. Westermayer

Thanksgiving Week

     Here we are entering one of my most favorite weeks of the year.  The week of Thanksgiving.  Work on Monday and Tuesday will give way to the big pie making day on Wednesday.  Add a couple of loaves of cranberry bread, and the house should be warm, cozy, and filled with delicious aromas.  Thursday is the day for making artisan bread, a special request from my daughter, and joining with her family and our oldest son for turkey and all the trimmings.  What could be better than celebrating with loved ones the gifts we've been given throughout the year?

     For me this has been a wonderful twelve months.  I've had some extra time to be at home--my favorite place--caring for my favorite person, and simply enjoying being a homemaker.  Recently, I've been blessed to be offered an at home job, where I can be accessible to my husband and able to care for his needs.  In a climate that is sometimes harsh and icy, I have to add the blessing of not having to drive on ice and snow to get to work.  How great is that?!
     I've been delighted  this month to see some of my friends on Facebook post daily entries of blessings for which they are grateful.  It has been a constant reminder that there are gifts, great and small, that grace each day.  Therefore, there are reasons every day for joy.  
     Because this is Thanksgiving week, I plan to let this be an extra special time of pondering and gratitude as I count my blessings and express, sometimes silently, sometimes aloud, the appreciation I feel for each one. In addition, I've set a goal to send written expressions of thanks to some of the people who have especially blessed my life through their actions, who have been an example of goodness, or who have inspired me. 
     What a perfect season for reflection; a time, not to be hurried through or dismissed, but to be savored.  An opportunity to think of those who have touched my life for good, and of those things which have come to gladden my heart and ease my way.

First Thanksgiving, Plymouth Colony, 1621

     It seems incredible to me that it was nearly 400 years ago that the Pilgrims established their new home at Plymouth colony.  I am grateful that in spite of all the hardships they suffered, and the deaths of so many of their little band, those 53 survivors still found it in their hearts to set aside a day to thank God for His blessings, and for a successful harvest.  I wonder, how many successful
harvests do we enjoy throughout our year?  The harvest of income to meet the needs of our families; the harvest of a good education;  the harvest of information that comes as we read books, magazines and newspapers; the harvest of strength and guidance we receive through the support and encouragement of family and friends; the harvest of good health through abundant food and skilled medical care; the spiritual harvest of prayers that are answered and blessings received--of safety, of happiness, of wants supplied, of peace and freedom; the harvest of joy from time spent with those we love.  We do not lack for an abundant harvest.  For all these blessings, may we give thanks all year long, and especially during this wonderful Thanksgiving week.


TODAY'S GENTLE ENCOURAGEMENT:  During this special week, take time to hold a child close, or to be extra kind to a pet, to remember the goodness of a friend, to reflect on your love for your spouse, to consider God's care.  Then, let your lips express the appreciation that your heart feels. 

  

The Gift of Opportunity

     When we're young our lives are filled with many opportunities.  We seem to be met by a never ending flow of new and unfamiliar events and exciting firsts.  Our first steps, our first swimming lesson, first day of school, first bus ride, first sleep over, first summer camp, first date, first job, first car, first kiss, first year of college, first home, first baby....  I love to watch my children and grandchildren experiencing some of their "firsts" and to see their enthusiasm as they master a new skill, or enjoy an incident that thrills their sense of wonder, adventure, or fun. 
      As we become ensconced in adulthood, there may be fewer firsts, and many more obligations.  Life can become pretty serious and demanding, and it can be a challenge to keep things fresh and exciting.  However, even in the more commonplace activities of life, there are many opportunities that supply endless reasons for gratitude and joy.   I am so very grateful for those opportunities, and I think it advantageous to consider them, and express appreciation for them on a regular basis--the warmth of my home on a cold day, the smell of dinner roasting in the oven, the sounds of music, the laughter of children, the happiness of a family gathering.  There are so many opportunities that present themselves.  Each a reason for thanksgiving.  
     Learning is one of those opportunities.  Because it is an ever present possibility in life, and found in so many forms, I find it to be an exciting and enriching aspect of life.
     Last week I had the opportunity of addressing a women's group.  I talked about maintaining a spirit of gratitude, even in the face of adversity.  I pointed out some of the science behind routinely training our thoughts in a positive direction, and the power we have over our own brain chemistry, and how we can influence our own mental and emotional health.   I further shared some direction in exactly how to alter our thinking and some skills that can be used to accomplish that.  Although speaking publicly is not new for me, it was still exciting to prepare my remarks and then share positive, thought provoking information.  
     I find some areas of my life limited because of my husband's illness, so I am especially grateful for those times when I get to share a positive perspective with others.  It is equally exciting when others are sharing new and uplifting information with me.
     I've also recently been training to do some "at home" work--an opportunity I'm grateful for because it will allow me to be with my husband and still supply needed income.  As I was being trained, all the information seemed a bit overwhelming.  However, I've had enough new learning experiences to know that what initially seems to flood and overflow our minds soon gets absorbed and is, indeed, taken in and learned.  As I was going through this process, I was struck by how very capable and marvelous our brains are; how they can take an abundance of new information, order it, make sense of it, and remember it, allowing us to learn new skill sets and become proficient in areas that were previously unexplored and unknown. 

     I know there was a time when I would have run away from such opportunities.  How silly.  What if every child born into the world simply sat in a corner, refusing to move because hand-eye coordination seemed too overwhelming, or because taking first steps seemed dangerous, or because holding a bottle was confusing.  Of course, babies don't do that--it wouldn't occur to them not to learn and progress.  Sometimes, as we get older, however, we become fearful--the reasons can be many--and stop allowing ourselves to take advantage of wonderful opportunities that would increase our joy and satisfaction with life.

     No matter what stage of life we are in, there are many opportunities for excitement,  and many reasons for new experiences, if we allow ourselves, like a small child, to wander a little outside our comfort zone--to explore, feel overwhelmed for awhile, and then trust that our brains will do their marvelous work of processing and ordering things.  They will, you know, and we will get to enjoy new experiences that, perhaps, we felt were outside our realm of possibility. 

TODAY'S GENTLE ENCOURAGEMENT:   “Don’t wait for extraordinary opportunities.  Seize common occasions and make them great.”(Orison Swett Marden )      It is gratitude that turns common into  precious and elevates ordinary to exciting!!  (me)

Honoring our Servicemen on Veteran's Day

     I've been away for a couple of weeks, busy learning some information necessary to keep hearth and home together.  But, I'm back!!  Couldn't stay silent on such an important day of the year--Veteran's Day.  
     As the mom of 2 active duty servicemen, one retired, and a forth who is engaged in military instruction, I want to add my voice to the many who, this day, are expressing thanks for those who have given, or are giving, their lives in the service of our nation.

     Thank you for bravely defending and preserving our freedoms so that we can enjoy our very high quality of life.  Thank you for allowing us to rest easy at night, while you guard the perimeter and put your life in harm's way.  Thank you for leaving home and family so that my family can have a home.  Thank you to your spouse, your children, and all your loved ones who worry and wait until you can be with them again.  

     The following were posted on my Facebook account--each a simple, yet profound reminder of the gratitude we wish to express to our Valiant Hero's our military men and women who serve or have served in our armed forces.     THANK YOU!!

As you consider the service personnel you know, remember: 

 "In war, there are no unwounded soldiers." -Jose Narosky

The Gift of Kind Speech

     I saw this today, posted on a friends Facebook status:  Before you speak, THINK

                                                                                   T   is it TRUE?

                                                                                   H   is it HELPFUL?

                                                                                   I    is it  INSPIRING?

                                                                                   N  is it  NECESSARY?

                                                                                   K  is it  KIND?

     How much nicer would the world be if we all took the time to THINK before we spoke, and adhered to these simple guidelines?    I know that I am ever grateful for those who refrain from finding fault, meddling and engaging in remarks that are degrading.  

     I have been blessed to know quite a few people who seem to live by the counsel expressed in my friend's Facebook post--including the friend who posted it.  She, in fact, has always been a stellar example of speaking and acting in kindness.  Her life has been one of service, and of hardship.  If anyone had a reason to be edgy and critical, it would probably be her.   But she isn't, and prefers, instead, to look outward, blessing the lives of others and encouraging thoughtful, uplifting speech and involvement in causes that bless the lives of others.

     In the Old Testament we read, "my speech shall distil as the dew, as the small rain upon the tender herb, as the showers upon the grass"  (Deut. 32:2).   Think about those words for a moment.  Oh, that our speech would be so gentle and nourishing, so life giving.

    

     The gift of being able to speak is so precious, and it can lead to a more abundant and fulfilling life or it can cut and injure, and lead to heartache, depression and emotional death.  

    Use the gift of speech wisely.  Let your speech be an expression of appreciation for the many blessings in your life.  Let it lead to life and happiness for others.  In short, let your speech speak well of you!

TODAY'S INSPIRED QUOTATION: Speech is the mirror of the soul; as a man speaks, so he is. Publilius Syrus (Roman writer and poet.)

Your Sphere of Influence

     My nephew sent me a quotation that I felt would be fun and inspiring to share:  

"Life is not about the shoes you fill, it's about the lives that you change through the footsteps you take." Kelly K. Owens

     At times each of us will wonder if anything we do really makes a difference. We'll ask ourselves if anything we've said or done has given real encouragement, changed a life, relieved a heartache, lifted someone's spirit and helped them along.  I've found, through the feedback I've received in my life, that it's not the big things I've done that seem to have had an impact.  It's the little things.  As Kelly Owens quotation indicates, the individual footsteps.  And footsteps, of necessity, are small.  Our legs, after all, are only so long--and some of us have shorter legs than others.  However, be they the legs of a diplomat or a domestic, they still carry us along, getting us where we need to go--or into the muck of discouragement.

     I could say, "I'm only a mother," or "I'm only a wife, or a sister, or a daughter."  The important thing is not who I am in relationship to someone else, or even what I do to earn my daily bread.  The important thing is the how of  it.  How do I go about my roles in life?  I may not have a lot to say about the who of it.  My birth determined that I would be a daughter and a sister.  However, the kind of daughter I am, the kind of sister I choose to be is determined by me.  True also the kind of wife, mother, worker and friend.  What small steps am I taking, each day, to insure that those actions are an influence for good, taking me where I want to go?

     Dr. Wayne Dyer has said, "Concentrate on your sphere of influence, not your sphere of concern."  As I've pondered and tried to live his wise counsel, I've noticed a couple of important changes have occurred in my life:   

     I tend to leave my concerns to God.  I do this as I acknowledge that some things are just beyond my ability to fix.  I ask Him for guidance in my life, that He will lead me to answers or to acceptance of what, in His wisdom, is not supposed to be changed, at least not yet.  Maybe there is something I or someone else needs to learn.

    I also find that I simply go about each day trying to do the unspectacular things that will make the world a little brighter place.  As I've greeted life with a more grateful spirit, and a more positive disposition, I know I've been a happier person.  I believe that others around me have also been happier and more relaxed.  They've also expressed gratitude.

     One of my great delights has been to write this blog.  I have had nearly 1200 visits to date, and many very kind comments concerning the blog's content.  Knowing that I have helped to brighten someone's day, shared a thought that changed someone's perspective, reminded someone of a blessing, has been such a joy for me.  It has truly increased my happiness.  As I have taken the small footsteps to concentrate on this little sphere of influence, I have been blessed.

     So it can be for each of us.  The footsteps we take can be as simple as bringing a meal to someone recovering from an illness; sending a card; expressing our appreciation for a comment made in a meeting; offering a ride to someone who is going our way; patiently waiting on a loved one; leaving a note of kindness and gratitude on someone's pillow; doing the job that no one else wants to do.  There are a thousand ways to direct our footsteps in a path that will broaden our sphere of influence and encourage others to greater happiness and gratitude.  

     So, my encouragement is, don't be so concerned about your concerns--leave them to God, trusting He will give you guidance or send the help you need.  Simply be your best self, relax a little more with life.  Smile a little more with friends.  Trust a little more in God.  Know that the good you give out will not only be a positive influence in the lives of others, it will also make your life more happy and fulfilled.

TODAY'S  AWESOME  BLESSING:  My Grandchildren Were Over For Lunch Yesterday.  It Was Fun to Play Peek-a-Boo With My Grandson And Remember When My Own Children Were That Small.  What a Wonderful Season of Life That Was, And What a Wonderful Season of Life This Is.  And Who Can Count a Grandma's Influence?  There Are Simply No Times in Our Lives When We Cannot Be a Blessing to Our Family and Friends!

Each Life That Touches Ours for Good

     There is a hymn with the words, "Each life that touches ours for good, reflects thine own great mercy, Lord."  Sometimes, we are blessed to know someone whose life seems to be nothing but goodness, kindness, and concern for others.  

     Recently a friend, whom I've known for years, passed away.  He had lived a very good life of service and kindness.  He was especially kind to my family when I was a young child, and I always looked up to him as a sort of father figure, since my own father had died when I was eleven months old.  His name was Ray, and as I mentally scroll back over the years of our friendship, I can't say I ever remember anything negative about this good soul.  He was ever ready to lend a listening ear, give sound counsel and encouragement, and tell a funny joke or two.

     I believe it is rare to know someone who is so very good.  Most of us are so filled with flaws they sneak out when we'd rather they didn't, and reveal our most embarrassing weaknesses.  Most of us disappoint others, let them down, fail to live up to our end of some bargain.  I suppose that Ray may have had a fault or two; perhaps he also disappointed others at times in his life.  As for me, I can look back on my association with him as a clean slate, devoid of any errant markings of hurt of any kind.  

     I feel that in Ray I was blessed with a friend who was an example of what friendship and service is, at its best.  Because of him I can believe that there are incredibly good people who walk this earth and touch others in numerous, wonderful--even blessed--ways.  

     What an incredible gift that is!  Oh, that we would all have the blessing of a Ray in our lives.  It would make us try a little harder, serve a little more often, listen a little more patiently, love a little more deeply.  

     Thank you Ray, for your lasting impression on my heart.  It was a taste of heaven; a reason to believe in the goodness and mercy of God, and the goodness that is possible in all of us!

TODAY'S  GENTLE  ENCOURAGEMENT:  Think of all your friends and loved ones.  Is there a Ray in your life?  If yes, allow your heart to rejoice in gratitude that you know such a soul.   If not, become that kind of person to others.  They will bless you for it all the days of your life, and into eternity.

Just Gave Birth--Long Labor/Not Much Pain

Reminder:  If you've been keeping a Gratitude Journal now is a good time to update it.  Who blessed your life this week?  What events lifted your heart?  What did you see, hear or read that inspired you?  There are so many reasons to be grateful!   

Today  I give birth to a new blog:  Essential Oil Savvy. 
It's taken me a lot of years of study.  However, getting the information together to share has been a joy.  No pain at all, other than the details of setting up a blog.
So, if you use essential oils and would like to know more about them, this could be a great site for you.  If you really don't know much about essential oils, even better.  Personally, I think they are wonderful and have so many uses.  To learn more, please visit my new blog,  Essential Oil Savvy, at http://essentialoilsavvy.blogspot.com

I will still be maintaining my gratitude blog.  The essential oils are an addition to help further enhance your quality of life.  You will notice 4 pages listed on the right sidebar.  These are:   an introduction to my experience with essential oils

                  a welcome to the site 

                  some cautions you'll want to know about when using oils          

 and            a little primer on the most common methods of extracting oils from 

                  plants

                                                               

You will also see the main post for the day, and an archive for past postings.  A search bar will make it convenient for you to find material you've read and want to reread.  

Because I have found that various companies make excellent oils, some for one purpose and some for another, my site does not endorse any particular brand of essential oil.  It is merely for your information so that you can make informed choices as you use these wonderful gifts of nature.

I am really grateful for a chance to share this information, and hope you will use it often as a reference site when you are looking for the right oil to meet your needs.

TODAY'S INSPIRED QUOTATION:  The rose looks fair, but fairer we it deem for that sweet odour which doth in it live. - William Shakespeare - Sonnet 54

                                                          

Music, Beautiful Music

     If you've been reading this blog for the past week you know I've written a few posts about adversity, and thanking God for the challenges in our lives.  There are also some other really practical ways of getting though our more difficult passages.  Today I will write about one of my favorites: the gift of music.

     Maybe it's in my blood...probably is...but I love music.  One of my Italian uncles was a voice teacher, another could play just about any instrument and had his own studio, teaching many kids and adults in the community where I grew up. I also have a cousin, Sugar Ray Norcia, who has been a grammy award nominee on a few occasions for his blues music.   I also love to sing, though I can't claim any special musical talent.

     There are so many kinds of music and I love a bunch of them: Doo Wop from the 50's; Motown and rock from the 60's; some classical--Pachelbel's Canon in D is a big favorite; soft sounds like Secret Garden; inspiring and calming stuff like the work of Phil Coulter from Ireland and Sissel Kyrkjebø from Norway; and then, one of my all time "happy sound" favorites, Israel Kamakawiwo’ole. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Po8rG4nXpUs

His music just makes me feel like dancing, so I do!  Happily then, not only do I get to hear great sounds, I also get a little exercise and a good laugh (all you need to do is watch me dance to know exactly why I'm laughing).

     So, my simple message to you today is, enjoy some of your favorite music.  What a great gift to lift our spirits and snatch us out of the doldrums.  So refreshing!  Not to mention giving us a wonderful reason to be grateful.  I so appreciate that God gave some of His children the gift of beautiful voices, some the ability to play instruments, and some the creativity to compose.  All to bless the rest of us.  Thank you, thank you, thank you for music, beautiful music!

Today's Awesome Blessing:   Music, so many kinds, so many reasons to feel uplifted and blessed!

   

A Living Example of Gratitude

     From time to time, if we are very fortunate, we are blessed to know someone who is a brilliant example of "grace under pressure,"  "gratitude in the midst of adversity."  This is my friend, Rosie.  Rosie recently completed chemo therapy treatment following cancer.  She also suffers from multiple sclerosis.  She has weathered numerous difficulties in her life, yet Rosie usually seems so, well, rosy.  She has a determined spirit, and one of her greatest determinations is to be grateful and cheerful, no matter what may be going on.  She tells me that two of her favorite phrases from the scriptures are, "be of good cheer"  and  "it came to pass."  "Not," she emphasizes, "it came to stay."

     I was chatting on the phone with her the other day, and when I expressed my admiration for her positive outlook, she was quick to say, "Oh, that's not really me speaking.  That's God.  He gives me the strength to face each day and be happy.  It does take effort, but He makes it possible.  I figure,"  she goes on, "if I wake up in the morning and read the newspaper and my name isn't in the obituaries or the police log life is good."

     Rosie certainly has a great attitude!  I am especially impressed that she takes none of the credit for her optimistic approach to life, though she could--for, as she says, "it does take effort."  But, for Rosie, first and foremost, the honor goes to God.  He is helping her though every trial and supporting and lifting her up to rise above her difficulties. 
     I have known this good woman for many years, and though I've seen her at some of her most discouraging moments, she has always chosen to leave pessimism behind, to refocus and adopt a hopeful outlook.  In other words, yes, I have seen her discouraged and confused, but it has always been within the context of looking for the best way to approach her concerns and solve them.  Self-pity is short lived; anger is absent; she is just seeking after the right way.  Is this ability to readjust and adopt a positive perspective a gift, or a well-honed skill she has acquired as she has valiantly faced and wrestled down the challenges life has sent her way?  Probably some of both, for life has sent her what I consider a disproportionately large share of woe.  

     When I think of her many trials and how she handles them, I think of the account in the New Testament when the disciples asked the Lord, concerning the blind man,  "Master, who did sin, this man, or his parents, that he was born blind?   Jesus answered, Neither hath this man sinned, nor his parents: but that the works of God should be made manifest in him"  (John 9:2-3).  

     I often wonder if Rosie's remarkable way of deflecting life's slings and arrows is so that others around her can see God working through her, and hear her say,   "That's not really me speaking.  That's God.  He gives me the strength to face each day and be happy.  It does take effort, but He makes it possible."   

     In my opinion, His works and His love are manifest through this good woman.  Her attitude of gratitude, and her positive outlook are a testimony that His spirit abides in her, because she invites it and then acknowledges its presence.  It is also a testimony to His involvement and concern for her--and for each of us.  I will always count Rosie's friendship among the sweetest gifts I have received to help me travel through life with greater optimism and success.


TODAY'S  GENTLE  ENCOURAGEMENT:  Check today's paper.  Is your name in the obituary column?  Cheer up, you still have lots to live for!

   

The Power We Possess Through Gratitude

     In my last post I spoke of the blessings that come from adversity.  I also encouraged readers to express gratitude to God for their afflictions.  However, when we are in the midst of great pain, it can be extremely difficult to marshal our thoughts and focus on any blessings that might result from what we are going through. Therefore, I decided to elaborate a little on what I wrote on Wednesday, and make some suggestions for just how to accomplish the task. 

     The benefits that come from adversity most often aren't the blessings we want or think we need. Therefore, finding words to express gratitude for them can be difficult.  Our effort to do so is, at the very least, an act of humility and obedience, showing God that we are willing to trust Him and try to explore our situation for any good it might contain.  

      Being schooled in patience and submissiveness to God's will are great lessons, but they are not easy lessons.  God knows that, and is aware of our struggle to find the meekness and faith it takes to say "thank you" even when the "gift" is one we would rather not have received.  There is a true tenderness that enters our hearts during such humble prayer, as we pour out our soul and express our gratitude that He knows better than we do, and we are willing to accept our situation, believing that He is watching over us, that He cares about what we are going through, and that He will turn our suffering into a blessing.
      Such humility, I believe, touches not only our heart, but His, and I think He cannot be restrained from blessing us.  At least I have found that, as I have thus prayed, there is an outpouring of guidance and a tangible feeling of His love. Sometimes I think He is just waiting for us to recognize that He is always there--not just in good times, but in difficulties, too.  He wants us to have the experiences that develop our trust in Him; that show us He can make all things work together for our good, if we don't remove ourselves from His influence through bitterness and anger.  As we express thanks for our difficulties it is a manifestation of that recognition, and I believe His heart swells with appreciation toward us for saying, in effect, "Thank you, I know you love me, even though I am in pain just now.  I know you haven't abandoned me.  I know that you understand my suffering because you have already experienced this kind of pain and so much more.  Thank you for always abiding with me."  When we are angry and bitter, we can't convey that message. We aren't feeling the truth of that message, or having faith in it.
      Severe trials present us with such difficult life lessons.  My heart goes out to anyone who is suffering through adversity that seems to them more than they can bear.  In truth, it probably is more than they can handle on their own.  Consequently, our times of trial are not times to close ourselves off from God.  As we express our thanks for adversity, and our confidence in His love, I believe it actually opens up a channel between us and His divine power.  Through that channel flows peace, understanding, and guidance.  Through it comes greater patience and faith so that we can endure for as long as we must.  It is interesting to me that we possess such power.  Indeed we, and only we, have the power to open that divine portal.  He stands at the door, but we must open it (see Rev.3:20).  It is accomplished through our humility, faith, obedience, and gratitude, and it is rewarded.

TODAY'S  INSPIRED  QUOTATION:  God brings men into deep waters, not to drown them, but to cleanse them.                  John Aughey

Gratitude for Adversity

     It might seem crazy, but one of the greatest blessing we receive in this life is the opportunity to experience adversity.  Challenges don't seem like blessings when we're going through them, but if we can realize there are lessons contained in every hardship, it helps to ease the pain--at least a little.  Not only are there lessons to be learned, there are also attributes to be acquired, if we choose to acquire them, rather than give in to the temptation to become bitter and angry.

     I'm not speaking from some theoretical point of view here.  I've certainly gone through my share of heartaches, disappointments, and trials.  Life can get messy.  It can present problems we never suspected we'd have to deal with.  It can throw us curve balls that hit us smack upside the head, and demand our attention to ordeals we thought we'd never face, given our careful preparation for life, and our desire to avoid  pitfalls.  But, we soon learn that the best laid plans can, indeed, go awry.  Though our intentions may have been good, life's outcomes don't always go according to plan.  I think of my own situation here.  My husband and I had our life pretty well planned out:  have our babies, get them raised, send them on missions for our Church, then on to college; we would work for another ten or twelve years and retire.  Didn't work out that way.  Our daughter still had two years of high school to complete when my husband became ill and life took a drastic and unexpected turn for us.  Sometimes it seems like this particular trial will never end.  It takes its own peculiar twists and turns, but so far, it is still with us.

     So, how do we handle these unsettling, sometimes prolonged situations with gratitude?  And why should we? 

     How?   I think a good starting place is being humble enough to realize we don't need to handle them alone.  We are told in Proverbs 3:5, "Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.  In all thy ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct thy paths."  Since God knows all things and has all power, and He loves His children, we can go to Him in confidence, trusting that He is aware of our situation, and desires to help us.  All we need do is ask, believing He will extend the blessings that are best for us.  That doesn't mean our trial will end quickly, but it does mean that we are not going through it alone.

     We are also instructed in scripture to "giv[e] thanks always for all things unto God" (Ephesians 5:20).  and, "In everything give thanks;... waiting patiently on the Lord....and all things wherewith ye have been afflicted shall work together for your good, and to my name's glory, saith the Lord." (Doctrine and Covenants 98: 1,2,3). It is comforting and wonderful to know that the difficulties of life will be turned to our blessing as we remember to thank God for the trials we encounter and must work through.

     Why should we be grateful for them?  What possible good comes from the challenges, illnesses, injustices and heartaches of life?   It is only in such uncomfortable circumstances that we learn true compassion for those who suffer pain;  develop faith, patience and humility; discover strengths we didn't know we had;  learn to forgive;  and come to know our reliance upon God and His mercy as He helps us and gives us insight.   I have also learned, through personal experience, that it is sometimes while suffering some great heartache of our own that we learn to rise above ourselves to serve a loved one or friend who is also in need of help. Thereby we come to know that, at our best, we are stronger and less selfish than we ever knew we could be.  These are no small gifts, and it is only by traveling the path of adversity that we come to acquire these attributes.  

     So, be grateful for the path you find yourself traveling, even if it is steep and rutted, and strewn with obstacles.  It is your path, lovingly watched over by God.  And if you let it, it will lead you through many wonderful, though sometimes difficult, experiences.  In fact, I am confident that, no matter how careful you were with your life plan, as you gratefully travel the path you find yourself on, it will lead you to a more beautiful place than you ever could have imagined. 

TODAY'S  AWESOME  BLESSING:  A friend brought me a wonderful book* that was filled with amazing insights regarding forgiveness and gratitude.  In fact, it gave me a whole new perspective on some things.  Although the grammar and spelling were sometimes awkward, and some of its content might seem a little "out there" to some readers, the stories that were related were insightful. As I read, I certainly felt there were possibilities to be considered that had never occurred to me.

    

*Possibilities by Doug Mendenhall.  Available on Amazon.com

   

  

Gratitude for Everyday Blessings

     It only takes a day of feeling BLAH to really begin to appreciate the simple gifts of life:  your bed, a warm house, a hot bath, simple food, someones expression of concern.  Having spent the day yesterday feeling not so great, it was nice to have those essentially mundane, but oh so meaningful conveniences.  In fact, I know these are things that people in some situations would regard as luxuries.

     Most of us in the United States are blessed to enjoy the necessities of life.  I wonder how often we think of those who have no roof, no medical attention, no wholesome, delicious food, no hot water.  There are so many needs in the world that go unmet.  If we were to ask ourselves, in all soberness, what needs we have that are  unfulfilled, most of us would have to confess, "not  many."   Lots of wants may be hanging out, unaddressed, but few, if any, needs.   We are so incredibly blessed!

     In my mother's personal history, she writes about her childhood during the Great Depression:

               "One day Mama went downtown to get a bag of flour.  When she got to the

              store, the storekeeper told her he didn't have any, but she saw a bag of flour

Children of the Great Depression

              sitting in the corner and mentioned it to him.  He told her he 

              couldn't sell it to her because it had gotten wet.  She told him

              she would take it anyway and offered him a quarter. He 

              refused the quarter, but told her to take the flour.  

              She lugged that 25 pound bag home.  When she had used 

              about a third of the bag for biscuits and pancakes they began 

              to taste moldy, so she changed from baking powder to baking 

              soda to camouflage the taste.  After a while the taste got so 

              bad she had to give up using the flour for cooking and saved 

              the rest for wall paper paste.

                  "I remember many mornings going to school after eating a breakfast of chocolate

              pudding and canned milk.  This was not very nutritious but it filled our bellies."

     These simply are not conditions we think of as we eat our bacon and eggs or purchase baked goods from the supermarket.  Hopefully, we will never be as desperate or need to get as creative as my grandmother.  Hopefully we will never know the deprivation that so many people experienced during that horrible time in the 1930s. 

     I believe that, for the vast majority of us, our needs are pretty well taken care of.   Pausing a moment to assess how blessed we are is a humbling thing.  Giving thanks for those blessings, a measure of our recognition of the very fortunate situation in which we live.  Don't wait until you have a "sick day" to realize the gifts you enjoy.  Take time today to express gratitude for the seemingly simple, but ever so wonderful comforts of life!

TODAY'S  INSPIRED  QUOTATION:
"Enjoy the little things in life, for one day you may look back and realize they were the big things."  Author Unknown

Photo Credit:  FDR Presidential Library & Museum

What If?

Bringing a Treat to a Friend

     I wonder, what if everyone decided--I mean absolutely everyone--to spend the next 24 hours committed to doing, saying, and thinking positive things.  No backbiting, no fault-finding, no criticizing, no unkind jokes, remarks or thoughts.  What if everyone spent that 24 hours looking for the good in others, overlooking faults, helping a neighbor or friend, volunteering for an hour, cleaning up someone else's mess without complaining, bringing someone a treat, saying "thank you",  letting someone else go first in traffic or at the supermarket.  I wonder how those actions would change the world and the level of happiness we all experience? While we can't create that kind of positive wave worldwide, we can practice it in our own life, and influence our own home, friends and workplace. 

     Negative perspectives seem so much a part of our culture.  You can't scan down your Facebook page without seeing someone complaining about the president of our country. I can't say that I'm a fan, either, but I wonder, wouldn't it be in the best interest of all of us if we prayed for him instead, or redirected our negative energy to pray for those who might be able to facilitate the changes we want?  There are positive ways to approach negative situations, and loving ways to consider people with whom we disagree.  We are, after all, all God's children.  He loves our enemies--"flawed" as they are--as much as He loves us.

     Closer to home, it's also difficult to find a 4-way stop where everyone is amicable about who should go next.  We're in such a hurry that we've somehow come to believe we are "entitled" to skip ahead in line, or be waited on right now.  Everyone should think like we think, act like we act, believe as we believe, and if they don't, surely, there is something wrong with them!  

     Doesn't it relax and uplift you when someone breaks that chain of negativity by smiling, acting courteously, stepping aside so you can go first, holding a door open for you, saying "thank you" for a kindness you've extended, treats you like you really matter?  Surely we can all find ample reasons for taking offense, finding fault, or being irritable.  It's our most basic nature to be selfish.  But what if, for just one day, we could all set that basic nature aside and rise to a higher state of awareness, love, and gratitude?

      On the blog, How to Raise Your Vibration, writer Sabrina Reber talks about the power we each possess to influence the people and the world around us.  In a post dated June 15, 2011, she talks about her belief that so much negative energy and criticism is projected to our national leaders that we actually inhibit their ability to do their jobs as effectively as they might.  She says, "WE aren't using our energy/power of intention/love/positivity to help our leaders fulfill what WE want. We spend too much of our energy focusing on what we don't want."  

     Because she was such a loving, peaceable person, Mother Teresa was once asked why she never attended anti-war demonstrations.  She said, "I will never do that, but as soon as you have a pro-peace rally, I'll be there."   Like I said, there are positive ways to approach negative situations.

      So, I'm going to make a bold suggestion:  for the next 24 hours think positively; refrain from criticism; find a positive way to think about some negative situation; perform some loving act of kindness; smile at someone; say thank-you every opportunity you get; look for the good in others.   It won't cure all the ills in the world, but it will make your little corner of creation a happier, more loving place.  You will be ever grateful you did.  I promise!

TODAY'S  AWESOME  BLESSING:  I've been reading about the life of Mother Teresa--that alone is a wonderful blessing.  In addition, I found this quotation.  She said, "Every time you smile at someone, it is an action of love, a gift to that person, a beautiful thing."   This reminded me of the value of our small but positive efforts. We can't all be super stars, but we can all do simple things that improve the quality of life and bless the people around us!

Missionary of Charity holding child: Digital Photography School; 17-images-of-poverty
Bringing a Treat to a Friend: public domain photo

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                 

An Uplifting and Encouraging Weekend

     For me, this was an especially uplifting weekend as our church held its Semi-annual General Conference.  Twice a year, each year, our members are given two days of instruction--an opportunity to be inspired,  assess our lives, and refocus our priorities.  What seemed to stand out most to me was the counsel to do away with the habits and tendencies that keep me from being a true follower of Jesus Christ. Now this is not new counsel.  As Christians, every member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has made covenants at baptism to be a witness for Christ and to follow Him.  However, as very fallible mortals we sometimes get caught up in our frustrations and in the things of this world, and we forget the very sacred promise we have made.
      Maybe you're a little like me. Sometimes I get frustrated because there are failings I've had for years that I seem to overcome for awhile--sometimes even a long while--but then, in moments of intense stress, they reappear.  I have to wonder, will I ever really overcome my faults or do they just go unchallenged for a season or two?  As I assess myself, I am reminded of the words of Ghandi, "I like your Christ, I do not like your Christians.  Your Christians are so unlike your Christ."
     There is nothing that makes me more sad than to think that I am not living up to my promise, or that someone might look at me and be led to believe that I am not a Christian.  Yet, I know my weaknesses, and I've had to ask myself,  "How like Christ am I, or am I too often very much unlike Him?"   I admit to glaring deficiencies.  Happily, this conference, like all others, gave specific instructions for helping me do better. The spirit conveyed by each speaker was so positive that I actually found myself, not feeling defeated or discouraged, but believing I can accomplish this.  I can be more loving, more patient, more prayerful, more gentle, more forgiving, more faithful, more attentive to the needs of others.  I can, in short, be more aligned with my promise at baptism to stand as His witness.  Though I may never claim perfection, I can do these things more consistently.
      I was especially impressed by the counsel to "look up".
http://lds.org/general-conference/watch/2011/10?lang=eng&vid=1194937426001&cid=8
When the burdens of life seem particularly heavy, it is easy to look down, to feel discouraged or unworthy, or angry.  In looking up, we can focus on the true source of strength, Jesus Christ, and be renewed with courage and hope.  We can be reminded that we do not have to do anything we do alone!
     Perhaps I was in a particularly searching frame of mind, but I heard many specific suggestions given for remembering the Savior and becoming more like Him.  Now, most of these are not new, but I could implement some of them more often.  Among them: 

• Memorizing some scripture passages that are meaningful to me, realizing those passages will provide inspiration and direction for my life

• Looking for specific answers to my problems as I study the scriptures, trusting that the Holy Ghost will communicate with me, giving me the guidance I need
• More diligently praying for and serving others
• Realizing that my challenges are a part of my eternal growth, not a punishment
• Recording personal impressions and insights and following the direction they supply
• Recognizing the blessings I have received and giving liberal thanks for those gifts
• Being more patient and charitable--for no other spiritual gift can compensate for a lack of charity  

     When the stresses of life are upon us, it can be so easy to forget who we are at our best, and who is our perfect example.  I am so grateful for the messages I heard this weekend. http://lds.org/general-conference/watch/2011/10?lang=eng
They remind me that it is possible to try a little harder, do a little better, and become a little more like the my Savior.  I will probably always struggle.  I'm not perfect, though I try to be loving.  I am not always thoughtful, though I strive to be kind.  I'm not consistently calm, though I endeavor to be patient and loving.  Luckily, I have the best teacher--Jesus Christ, and the perfect pattern--His life.
     The  talks I heard this weekend were such great reminders because they were given in a spirit of love and kindness--which is a perfect reflection of His spirit.  The spirit I want to emulate.


TODAY'S  GENTLE  REMINDER:  "Be not weary in well-doing, for...out of small things proceedeth that which is great."  (D&C 64:33;
2 Thes. 3:13; Gal.6:9).