Good Old Fashioned Joy

A while back, I was honored by two of my fellow bloggers with the distinguished "Lemonade Award". This award is presented to people who are thought to demonstrate great Attitude &/or Gratitude.

Thank you Shabby Girl & Tricia for sharing this honor with me. I have always savored the tangy mix of lemons & sugar in a refreshing glass of lemonade, but have never really thought of myself as having an uplifting spirit.

As I wrote in yesterday's post, I used to have a much more pessimistic view of life. But since becoming a mother, I have tried to wear my rose colored glasses along the way. Writing a daily "gratitude journal" to remind me about all of the little things I am thankful for has totally changed my perspective about the life I've been given.

So remember to share your gratitude throughout your journey. And when life hands you lemons, add water, then blend the bitterness of the world with a spoonful of sugar from your happy heart. Sip, smile & share!

Do the Right Thing

One thing I absolutely detest is cowardice. When people stand back and watch a horrific event unfold without blinking an eye, or walk away pretending they didn't notice someone needing help...

How can you live with yourself, how can you look in the mirror and be proud of the face staring back at you when you've let someone suffer? What if it was your mother, your spouse, your child, your grandfather? Could you, would you casually walk away knowing that they were in jeopardy? Of course not.

Yet everyday I see (we all see) this kind of opportunity ignored. Is it because we are too selfish, too busy, too hurried, too timid, too scared, too narcissistic? What excuse could you use to justify watching someone suffer pain or injustice?

I have tried to teach my children the importance of compassion & humanitarianism. When they see someone fall on the ski slope, they stop to make sure that the person is alright, help them gather their equipment and offer them help to their feet. When they see someone cry, they offer empathy. When they see someone hungry, they share their snack. It's the right thing to do.

Don't miss out on your chance to be a hero, to make a difference in someone's life. Even if no one else is willing to help, be the one who is.

[Note: disable music player at page end before playing this song...]

He Aint Heavy, He's My Brother - Hollies