Helping Hand

As a parent, I want my children to understand the importance of compassion and empathy. I want them to understand that helping others is a great gift and that giving of ourselves is just as important as sharing our financial blessings.

I will always remember the first time I saw this in action with my son (then 8). I had just picked him up from school and was headed home. He noticed an elderly man raking his yard and said, "Stop Mom! Can I help that man pickup his yard?" I was so proud of him! We did stop and he finished raking, picking up and bagging the leaves. He even refused to take any money when it was offered. We visited our new friend several times over the next few years which brought smiles to all. What a gift!

I still talk about how important it is to do for others and more importantly, seek to be an example. This year, we are really focusing on the gift of giving and I challenge all of us to look for some way to help others each and every day. Again, the focus is not on giving monetarily, but giving of oneself. We can all make a difference for someone each day. Maybe it is a smile, picking up something that was dropped, holding a door open, say thank you to the person bagging the groceries, or offering to carry in groceries. For me, it is sometimes calling on patience when I'm being thoroughly tested.

Take a moment today (and everyday) to find a way to give of yourself. Encourage your family to do the same. Not only does it make someone else's day a bit brighter, you feel better too!

Gratitude Abounds

As is common, I sometimes (okay, frequently) find myself complaining about my woes. Why is it easier to complain than be grateful? I've asked myself that a lot the past few months. It has definitely been put into perspective.

A very dear friend is watching her 3 year old, baby girl fight cancer thus fighting for her life. There have been scares and so much pain for such a little one. However, my friend has not stopped giving thanks and glorifying our Awesome God. What a testament she is! That daily praising and thanksgiving for each miracle she gives to Him.

I now catch myself starting to get upset and remind myself how very blessed I am. I pray diligently for my friend, her little one and family while giving thanks for His endless bounty and blessings. Don't get me wrong, I still fall as I am but a mortal. I still complain and have to catch myself. But, I also take a more moments to enjoy the vast beauty around me; to hug my child a little more often and for longer moments. What a wonderful life we are given...what a gift to know that He will always carry us in our time of need!

I hope that you will take a moment to offer up a prayer of thanksgiving and remember each of the blessings He has given you. For the Praise and the Glory are His, now and forever!