From the Desk of Pennwell Gray
Daily thoughts. Points to ponder. Soulful reflections. The Musings of E.M. Murphy.
As I close in on 2 am, exhausted yet satisfied with tonight’s accomplishments, I recalled a countless number of folks who dismissed homemade gifts over my accumulative years of life.
The candied pecans, Christmas cookies, or crocheted crafts. A patchwork quilt, knitted sweater, or embroidered wall art.
Continue reading “The blood, sweat, and tears of homemade gifts.”Me: I must send my holiday cards. I’m so late! So behind! This is the last year. I’m done. I’m not sending them next year.
Also me: Oh, *#@&, I might have run out of room. Can I fit a few words more? Is there anyone I’ve forgotten? Do I have enough cards?
Can anyone relate?!
‘Tis the season! Make it magical. Even if you don’t think you’re in the mood, trust me – you’ll find the spirit once you start.
“I just want to be happy.”
Don’t we all!
It’s commonplace for human beings to desire happiness above all else. It’s as natural as the air we breathe.
No one wants to feel sad, alone, or stagnant. No one wants to feel angry, anxious, or despondent.
Continue reading “Happiness is not a destination.”When we hear the word criticism, it can evoke a number of feelings.
It may spark memories of a relative or friend who consistently belittled us, putting us down and criticizing everything we did. Nothing was ever good enough. We always felt less than and insecure, possibly stunting our potential because of someone else’s opinion – someone we liked, loved and respected.
Continue reading “Criticism: the good, the bad, and the ugly.”As we embark on the Thanksgiving holiday, I cannot help but think of those who may not have much to be thankful for.
It’s easy for some of us to joyfully declare that there is always something to be grateful for, no matter how dire our situation may seem.
We’re alive! We woke up this morning! We can make this day anything we want it to be!
But those of us who are proclaiming that have a roof over our head, heat in our homes, and food on our table. We awoke with a pain or an ache, maybe two or more, but we put our feet on the floor and started our day with gratitude. Continue reading “Giving Thanks – Not for Everyone.”
Today my uncle (thank you) posted a frequently seen, yet never old, quote:
“I used to think that the worst thing in life was to end up alone. It’s not.The worst thing in life is to end up with people who make you feel alone.” – Robin Williams.
We lost a great man when Robin chose to take his own life. He was a talented, witty, and generous human being who aimed to bring joy to those around him.
Each of us feels lonely from time to time.
Continue reading “How do you define loneliness?”It’s been such a long time since I’ve crafted a post, and how I’ve missed writing.
We make the time for what’s important to us, and writing is central to my existence, yet there are times when we find ourselves juggling priorities – and something has to give.
My full-time work must always rank number one, and it’s a demanding job that I am committed to.
My soul work seems to have grown legs, and I find myself searching for more hours in each given day to keep it all going.
Continue reading “An Unplanned Hiatus.”If you’re a news junkie, it’s safe to say that you have been led to believe that partisanship is how our country, and world, operates.
If you’re active on social media, it’s safe to say you read the comments posted by extremists from both sides, bullying others from behind the screens of their phones, tablets, or iPads.
Fact is, our communities are made-up of many decent human beings who don’t hate each other. They’re civil people who want nothing more than to get along, raise good children, and live a peaceful life. They can even discuss controversial topics with ease and diplomacy, not berating those with opposing views. They are eager to help someone in need, and seek ways to be of value.
Continue reading “Media madness.”I’m not talking about a gift you can wrap, or something someone gives to you. These don’t cost money, and aren’t tangible.
I’m talking about the wonderful feeling that comes along with doing something special. The smile that lights your soul after the blood, sweat, and tears of hard work.
Many of you know that I sell dog (and cat) treats to raise money for veteran and first responder non-profits. My business is not-for-profit, financially funded by me with some family contributions as well. This includes ingredients, packaging, advertising, shipping, raffle items, etc.
There are moments when I ask: why?
Continue reading “Little Gifts, are the Biggest Gifts of All.”
