Getting up each morning to face the day is a real delight. There are so many circumstances that people face that are overwhelming. Just being grateful for the daily routine is beautiful. Opportunities abound when we are open to them. Today the sunshine is a welcome to the day. The skies are clear and the air brisk for a January day. Being in the northern suburbs of Illinois, I tell you this is wonderful!
There is an old adage that we are to think before we speak. Well that is so true. It is better to think things through and reflect on what our words say. Even far truer is that we are to think about the behaviors people take when we speak to them. It is easy to react to what someone says. We may go into a defense mode when we don’t need to do so. And likewise we need to not put others on defense. Everyone is responsible for their own actions. We are meant to work together as a team for our communities, our families, and our country.
Teenagers and young people however, need direction and guidance. They need to know how their actions and behaviors affect other people. Recently I watched a younger person stop and do a u-turn on a small street near a few stores. Obviously, they did not consider the danger it put others in. I stopped and watched in amazement how they just assumed everyone else was to stop and watch out for them. Now some of the best drivers are the young ones who are following the rules and being conscientious of other people. I applaud them.
Selfishness seems rampant these days! What is that all about? I have noticed that often during these past holidays. It is as if everyone has become self-centered. Now is the time to look at ourselves. I have been trying to be aware of how my schedule affects other people. I am trying to be thoughtful and I invite you to join me in this conscious behavior. We need to think before we act or speak unkindly.
Look for the Mini Miracles and gracious people. Thank them and help them to continue being that way. Have a great day and a beautiful Wednesday.