I am writing this blog on Veteran’s Day sitting in my living room watching the sun erase the fog rising from Lake Eva Marie revealing a cascade of the most glorious fall colors. Simultaneously, the news reveals horrendous ongoing stories of the thousands in the Philippines killed or stranded by Typhoon Haiyan.
On one hand I can write in my morning journal a list of the dozens of ways I am blessed on this morning. I am especially thankful for family members and friends who have served in our Armed Forces to give me the freedom I had to attend church yesterday and to sit here today.
On the other hand, I can write about dozens of situations in the lives of people I know personally that need help, but I do not know how — let alone the millions who need help that I don’t know personally! My feelings range from joy to despair. What can I do? What should I do? There are so many things I feel I need to do, so many I want to do — some of them I’m capable of doing, and many of them I’m not — at least not now. As I searched for comfort and direction, I came across Deuteronomy 33:25: “As thy days, so shall thy strength be.”
I immediately remembered my last days with my mother who was lying in bed discussing why she was still alive in spite of her limited ability to do much of anything for herself. In the middle of our conversation, a nurse’s aid came in. She looked tired and discouraged. Mom noticed, and commented on her observation. The aid immediately started spilling her burdens about money, childcare, a marriage falling apart. Mom listened, and then said, “I’m so sorry, I’ll pray for you.” “Thank you so much,” the aid replied.
When she left, Mom said, “Maybe the reason I’m still here is to encourage others.” My purpose for writing this blog is to inspire ideas about how you can accomplish your work and enjoy your life based on what I have been, and am experiencing. It would be easy on this day to fall into despair, but that won’t help me — or anyone else.
None of us has any control over how many days we have left, or what will happen in the days we do have, but we can control what we do with the days we have.While we can’t control what other people do, we can control what we do, and more importantly what we think. As we approach this Thanksgiving season in the United States, my challenge to you is to think of the many people in your life who are a blessing to you, and begin today to plan specific ways to let them know.They will be blessed — and so will you.One way that I share my gratitude with others is by sending cards. Just send a hand written to someone you care about and let them know how you feel!What are you feeling blessed about? Love to hear your comments!
Barbara Hemphill know as The Paper Tiger Lady, is a Nationally Known Professional Speaker, Presenter, and Author. She helps people eliminate the physical, digital, and emotional clutter that keeps them from accomplishing their work and enjoying their lives.
To book Barbara for your next event, contact Sue Falcone here at www.simplysuespeaks.com, sue@simplysuespeaks.com, or at 888-766-3155.