“Maybe it’s because I’m a little naive, but I do like to think that there aren’t really very many truly bad people in the world. I think that everybody has their reasons for what they do, and if you really look through their eyes, you could probably understand them.” ~ Stephenie Meyer
Tag: compassion
It’s International Peace Day.
How ironic that this day falls during a time when I’ve been solemnly and wholeheartedly considering a cessation of any discussion on politics and religion. No contributions. No participation. Just opting out.
As a writer and a passionate person, that would be hard to do. I live to offer views and perspectives from all sides. I love to engage in lively debates where others don’t see eye to eye (it’s how we learn and grow). I want to hold my values and beliefs, while remaining non-partisan (even when I do need to make a declaration in the primaries, reclaiming my Independent identity immediately after). I want to dive head-first into the difficult, troubling and controversial subjects – yet people are growing increasingly ugly by the second. Continue reading “It’s International Peace Day.”
It’s National Grief Awareness Day.
On this day of awareness, may we all be reminded that grief does not stop. It is not given a time limit, nor does it pass. It is something many people live with each and every day – and each person carries it differently. No two paths are the same, even if they are similar or like in some ways.
Grief is not only related to death. It encompasses loss of all kinds – relationships, friendships, work, self.
Never underestimate or disregard the enormity of someone’s grief. Be compassionate, be tolerant. We can’t always see the cross another carries, but we can always practice kindness.
Quote of the day.
“Too often we underestimate the power of a touch, a smile, a kind word, a listening ear, an honest compliment, or the smallest act of caring, all of which have the potential to turn a life around.” – Leo Buscaglia
Your daily thought, point to ponder and soulful reflection.
Daily thought: We have no way of knowing what people are going through, so be kind.
Point to ponder: We hear that said all the time and see the memes and quotes on social channels. But do we really put that into action? Or are we only caught up in our own trials and tribulations, forgetting that other people have troubles, too?
Soulful reflection: It’s not always easy to be kind and it can take extra effort sometimes, especially when we are dealing with our own problems or managing our own emotions. We have moods, ups and downs and daily hassles as well as major life crises.
Truth is, it’s at those times when we should be cautious with our words and actions. When we are mindful and self-aware, we should not be looking to lash out at other people – though we do lose it at times, it happens and sometimes it’s both provoked, and maybe even deserved because some people are jerks, no sugarcoating that one – but rather disengage as much as possible from others on those given days. We can recognize the signs within ourselves, then steer clear of as many social interactions as we can. Be honest with family, friends and even co-workers. Let them know it’s a rough day and you may be a bit off kilter. In today’s world, most people will and do understand. Life isn’t stress free for anyone.
So many people I know are enduring hardships right now, from job related worries, financial troubles and relationship strains to the most important of all, illness and/or loss of a loved one.
No matter what we are going through, may we always make an effort to remember that others could be going through the same – or worse. We all have bad days and sometimes, bad periods of time that last for awhile. Yet if we remind ourselves that others are, too, we may just get through the day without causing more damage. We’re not saints, but that doesn’t mean we shouldn’t try.
Love your neighbor today. You might just feel better yourself because you did.
Quote of the day.
“This world would be a whole lot better if we just made an effort to be less horrible to one another.” – Elliot Page
Quote of the day.
“Don’t be reckless with other people’s hearts, and don’t put up with people that are reckless with yours.” – Kurt Vonnegut, Jr.
Quote for the day.
“Advice is like the snow. The softer it falls, the longer it dwells upon and the deeper it sinks into the mind.” – Samuel Taylor Coleridge
Quote of the day.
It may not be a quote, but it is a great directive from Be Amazing. So go about your day keeping this first in mind.
Before every word you speak and action you take, think to yourself, “Is this nice? Is it necessary? Is it kind?”
Being a nice person doesn’t mean you’re a pushover. Being a nice person doesn’t mean you don’t stand up for yourself and be assertive. It just asks you to think twice before you do.
We sometimes learn that not everything we think needs to be spoken and not everything that is understood needs to be said. Pick and choose your battles wisely. Your victory will be a more simple, peaceful and tranquil existence.
Happy Friday.
Don’t judge a book by it’s cover.
We are so quick to judge.
We react, label, stereotype and form fast – and usually unsubstantiated – opinions about others.
Continue reading “Don’t judge a book by it’s cover.”