Live Your Dreams

                                                  Live Your Dreams


Did you know that we all have a purpose in life?  By living your dreams you are fulfilling your life's purpose.  Many of us search a lifetime to figure out our purpose.  Some never figure it out, or more importantly are fearful of taking the steps that need to be taken to help fulfill your life's purpose.  
It has always been interesting to me to notice how some people are so highly evolved and others walk through this life with no direction.  I am not sure as to why this is the case but it certainly exists.   Most of us have had an experience with someone (especially a very young person) where you wonder how they seem so evolved and mature at a very young age.  I like to think that those individuals have very old souls and have already experienced so much life.  It is a very interesting experience if you have never had it.  
Keep in mind that when you are fulfilling your life's purpose, you will know in your heart that you are on the right path.  Everything will seem settled and peaceful.  Often it is an entire journey with little things that happen along the way to prepare you for purpose and you may not reach it until much later in life.  Others may be more in tune and start living their life's purpose when they are very young.
I challenge each and everyone of you to not fear living your dreams and finding your life's purpose.

HAVE A GREAT DAY AND BE YOUR BEST SELF!!!!!

Self confidence

   Self confidence is believing in yourself and your abilities.  How many  of us lack this extremely important trait?  It is a necessity to attain any kind of success.  This theory applies to every aspect of everything we do.  As we venture out to try different things, if you feel it is beyond the realm of your possibility to do it successfully, you will never be able to accomplish your goal.
  Some people just ooze with self-confidence.  I'm certain many of you wonder how they do it.  You see, there is no magic to self-confidence, it is simply believing in yourself and your abilities.  The term by definition is self-explanatory.
  As you trudge along in your day, know you can do anything you set out to do.  Trust that there is nothing that is beyond your capabilities.  The only thing getting in the way is YOU!!!!

Be Your Best Self!!!!!!

Friendship

Friend- A person who one knows, likes, and trusts.


"Two may talk together under the same roof for many years, yet never really meet; and two others at first speech are old friends."
- Mary Catherwood


How do you know when you have made a friend?  Some people will just call somebody they know their friend.  I prefer to use the the aforementioned definition.  Know, like, and TRUST.  I think the trust part is the most significant.  Knowing and liking are certainly the easier of the 3 components of the definition.


Have any of you ever thought you had a friend for years and then it turns out that you never really knew that person and they were actually the furthest thing from a friend imaginable?  That is where the trust  plays an important role.  Is friendship disposable like a used paper towel?  I suppose some people think so.  Being friends does not mean we have to agree all the time, it only means that we love each other enough to be able to disagree without it ruining our friendship.


My daughter and my niece have a friendship that I am quite sure I may never experience in my lifetime.  These two 5th graders are like 2 peas in a pod.  From the time they were babies, they have been  the best friends ever.  I have yet to ever hear them fight.  They should be the poster for love.  They love each other beyond words.  They are the two people literally at first speech are old friends.


I am very fortunate to have some of the greatest friends in the world.  I have read that if you can count your friends on one hand you are lucky....I am pretty sure my list extends to my other hand. 

Have a great day and BE YOUR BEST SELF
Take time today to think of your friends and ask yourself if you are a friend to anyone.

Good Health

I want to start by letting you all know that I will not have access to the internet so I will not be writing for the next week.

It’s not food if it arrived through the window of your car.” ~ Michael Pollan


Modern times have changed what is considered food.  Americans eat so much garbage that is not remotely close to food and has no nutritional value.  It is not wonder we have so much disease and obesity in America.  The poor food choices coupled with the lack of exercise are certainly the biggest contributors.  If we do not make changes, this situation is only going to become worse.  There are more overweight children today than ever in history.  Everybody wants to blame it on the computer and laziness.   This is true, however, the poor food choices are an equal contributor.
The fact of the matter is that if you generally make healthy, nutritious choices and exercise then you can indulge in other not so great things on occasion and in moderation.  Most people have this backwards.  They indulge in healthy eating and exercise occasionally.  We have started to rely on modern medicine  to help make us live longer instead of being proactive and doing our part as individuals to live and maintain a healthy lifestyle.


Please, let's make a decision to get healthier so we might provent illness in our lives.


BE YOUR BEST SELF!!!!!!!

Exercise

“Those who think they have not time for bodily exercise will sooner or later have to find time for illness.”  ~ Edward Stanley


I have to continue to stress the importance of exercise.  We all make excuses for not exercising, yet we make time for things that, in my opinion, are less important.  I think because our bodies function so perfectly when we are young, we think we can continue to do the same things as we grow older.  I like to compare it to having a used car versus a new car.  The new car only needs oil changes, however, the old car needs much more maintenance.  Nothing breaks down on a new car, but an old car, anything may happen.  Same goes with your body.  If you do not use the muscles in your body, eventually they will begin to atrophy.  Everyone should be doing things to exercise your heart as well as all the other muscles in the body.  The more lean body muscle you possess, the more efficiently your body will run.  It is like having a well oiled machine versus one that is not maintained properly.
Please do not discount the importance of exercise.  The truth is that you will certainly have to find time for illness later if you do not make time for exercise today.  It is the single most important thing you can do for yourself.

Have a great day.......BE YOUR BEST SELF!!!!!!!

Hippocrates

“If we could give every individual the right amount of nourishment and exercise, not too little and not too much, we would have found the safest way to health.”  ~ Hippocrates


This sounds so simple.  Do you realize that Hippocrates was born in BC.....before Christ?  How is it that he had the forethought to make these realizations, but the people of modern civilization can't seem to grasp it. Here are some examples of what we deal with in modern times:

• Lack of exercise
• Lack of making the right food choices......too many processed foods

Everybody wants  a "quick" fix with a diet. People certainly get  a "quick" fix, because before you know it they are back to being overweight.   The diet industry certainly must be a multi-billion dollar business.  Almost everybody I know, including myself, has been on some sort of "diet" at one time or another.  The fact remains....DIETS  DO NOT WORK.    The only tried and proven method for optimal health is (like Hippocrates states)......the right amount of nourishment and exercise.
Let's make a decision to make better food choices and start an exercise regimen TODAY!!!!
Have a great day and BE YOUR BEST SELF!!!!!                   

Loss

"Think of him still as the same, I say, He is not dead, he is just - away."

~ James Whitcomb Riley

 

Those words may be difficult to swallow even though in theory it certainly will help you process the loss of a loved one.  When someone is taken from us too soon, how do you cope?  The coping becomes even more difficult when there are children who are suffering the loss as well.  

Nobody has the answers as to why some of us live a long life and others are taken way before their time.  It is one of the mysteries of life that will never be answered.  Although there can be accidents that are unexplainable, we do have a certain amount of control over our health.  Let's make a concerted effort to educate ourselves and start exercising and eating right.  If you can't do it for yourself, then do it for your loved ones.

My heart is heavy today as I mourn the loss of a high school classmate.....RIP Neata Nicholas.  You will be missed by many.

Give thanks today.......BE YOUR BEST SELF.

Tomorrow is not a guarantee.

Life Experience

Years teach us more than books.
Berthold Auerbach


I have always believed this statement.  I am a huge advocate of education.  As a young person, the fastest way to become educated is through a formal education.  After that point, you turn to life for the rest.  I have always respected and appreciated the things my elders share with me.  There is a certain amount of wisdom and knowledge one obtains from being here on earth.  Just waking up everyday and living life is an education in and of itself.  I suppose that is why they say that the older you get, the smarter your parents become.  The fact is actually that as you get older, you get smarter.  It has nothing to do with your parents, but I do love the saying.  Actually, not sure if you get smarter, but certainly you become wiser and have more knowledge about things in life.   Nobody can take your life experience away from you...that is a beautiful thing. Go out today and experience life to its fullest and gain some more insight....be sure to share it and pass it along others.  That's the best part.
BE YOUR BEST SELF!!!!!!!

Middle Age

Middle age is the time in life when, after pulling in your stomach, you look as if you ought to pull in your stomach.  I am hopeful that all of you over the age of 40 can relate to this statement.   I honestly believe that the day you turn 40 someone flips the "old" switch.  What happened to round behinds and flat stomachs?   Guess they left with the 30's.  My mother always says that all the ladies she attends the YMCA with have big bellies and flat butts LOLOL.  I certainly believe that is probably true.  For all of you who have not yet had the privilege of becoming a member of the "over 40" club, please do not think that this will not happen to you.  I realize that when you are young and beautiful that you can't imagine things ever changing.  I hate to be the bearer of bad news but one day you too will have muffin top.  I'm certain you are all familiar with that terminology.  If not you can google it for the definition.

For those of you who are middle aged, enjoy the wisdom that comes with your belly For those of you who are not, enjoy your lack of midsection while it still doesn't exist.
Have a great day and BE YOUR BEST SELF!!!!!!

Smoking

   To cease smoking is the easiest thing.... I ought to know I've done it hundreds of times.  How many of you can relate to that statement?  Not sure which is more difficult....quitting smoking or quitting drugs.  The biggest difference I suppose is that drugs are more detrimental to your well-being than cigarettes.  Although cigarettes are bad for your health, they are not detrimental to your well-being.  I just ran into someone this morning who had quit smoking in October and was puffing again.  He says stress made him light up.  His dog jumped out of the window.  Not sure how stressful that is, but he obviously thought it was.  We can all make excuses to light up again after quitting.  Apparently, when you start up again, you were not really ready to quit in the first place.
    Quitting smoking is an extremely difficult task to complete.  To all of you thinking about it...give it try.  The rewards are great.  My motivation for not lighting up again is I remember how difficult the first few weeks of quitting were and I do NOT want to go through that again.
   Good luck to all who have quit to remain smoke free and to all who are willing to try again.
  Have a great day.  BE YOUR BEST SELF!!!!!

Out of the Closet

     As a parent, how does one react to your child telling you he/she is gay?  This is a very delicate subject for some.  I, however, have been around gay people for most of my adult life.  Some of my best friends are gay.  I say my adult life, because when I was a child nobody came out of the closet.  Most of my peers who are gay did not come out typically until they were in their 20's or older.
   It breaks my heart to hear stories of parents who disown their children for being gay.  Do you really believe your child has choice on the subject?  You know what you find attractive from a very young age.  If you are athletic and love sports and you have a child who is a geek....do you disown them?  There was a time when anything outside the "norm" was probably an embarrassment to the parents and they did not know how to deal with it.  The generations from the 60's and prior had to tendency to want to sweep things under the rug instead of dealing with them.  I don't blame them, this is just what was taught to them by their parents.

   It is time for us to let go of our fears and accept all humans.  We must treat each other with kindness and respect.  Isn't it our differences that make us all special and unique?  How boring it would be if we were all the same.
   Have a great day and BE YOUR BEST SELF!!!!!

Children's Birthdays

   Why do so many people have over-the-top birthday parties for young children?  A 2 year old has no idea what is going on and who is in attendance.  Americans spend hundreds of dollars and invite everyone they know to a birthday party of a toddler.  Does this make sense to you?  The children have no friends at that age, so who should be on the guest list?  Is it your friends? Only your friends who have children? Just family?  Do we need to spend hundreds of dollars to celebrate the birthday of a 2 year old?
    I understand people make a fuss over the first birthday.  This makes sense to me in some respects.  However, I do not ever see the need to be over the top for a young child's birthday celebration.  I feel it is either just for show or to get lots of gifts for your children.  The children are not going to remember, so it certainly has nothing to do with them.   Are we just buying into the materialistic, consumer society mentality?  What's wrong with a simple party with cake and ice cream and a few games for the children to play?  To accompany that with pizza or burger and hot dogs seems fine to me. Does it make the celebration any better to spend hundreds of dollars and do something over the top with everyone and their mother invited?
  Just some food for thought.  I would love to hear any input on this subject.  Maybe it is me that is off base.

Have a great day!!!
BE YOUR BEST SELF!!!!!

Sorry

I have had a very busy weekend.  Sorry I have not written since Thursday.  I will definitely be posting later today.

Smile

A smile costs nothing, but gives much-
It takes but a moment, but the memory of it usually lasts forever.
None are so rich that can get along without it-
And none are so poor but that can be made rich by it.

It enriches those who receive, without making poor those who give-
It creates sunshine in the home,
Fosters good will in business,
And is the best antidote for trouble-
And yet it cannot be begged, borrowed, or stolen, for it is of no value
Unless it is given away.

Some people are too busy to give you a smile-
Give them one of yours-
For the good Lord knows that no one needs a smile so badly
As he or she who has no more smiles left to give.

     The author of this poem is unknown.  I think it is great!!!!!  Everyone seems to underestimate the power of a smile.  It is probably the best free gift you can give someone.  The impact and influence of a smile is astronomical.  There is not another single, free thing that has much positive influence as a smile.

A smile is just a frown turned upside down

Smile today and make a difference in someone's life!!

BE YOUR BEST SELF!!!!!!!!

Determination

You Can Be Whatever You Want To Be!

by: Donna Levine

There is inside you
All of the potential
To be whatever you want to be; 
All of the energy
To do whatever you want to do. 
Imagine yourself as you would like to be, 
Doing what you want to do, 
And each day, take one step
Towards your dream. 
And though at times it may seem too
difficult to continue, Hold on to your dream. 
One morning you will awake to find
That you are the person you dreamed of, 
Doing what you wanted to do, 
Simply because you had the courage
To believe in your potential
And to hold on to your dream.


Don't be afraid to live your dreams.  The fear is the main reason people end up not doing the things they love.  Time ticks away so quickly in this lifetime and I don't recommend anyone ever looking back and saying "I wish I would have......".  You can fill in the blank with whatever you want.  Live your life to the fullest and do all the things you want to do, None of us are guaranteed tomorrow.


BE YOUR BEST SELF!!!!!!!!!

Money

    The only thing money gives you is the freedom of not worrying about money.
     Most people seem to be of the belief that money will solve all of their problems.  I suppose if the only problem you have is the inability to pay your bills then you would be correct.  Most people have problems beyond paying bills.  Additionally, the majority of Americans want to live beyond their means as opposed to below their means.
    Do you think that wealthy people have easier lives?  My belief is that it is the exact opposite.  With lots of money comes lots of problems and responsibility.  When I say that to people, they say that they will take the problems and responsibility to have the money.  I promise you that the majority of those people will either be broke in a short amount of time or hand back the money when they see how difficult and time consuming it is to manage it.  Why do you think most big lotto winners wind up broke?  The average person does not know the first thing about what to do with a sum of money as large as the lotto pays.
   Be happy with what you have in your life and please try to live below your means.  If making a larger salary is what you wish then by all means go for it.  I am just letting all of you know that no matter how much money you have, problems do not go away.
      BE YOUR BEST SELF!!!!!! Have a great day!!!!!!

Busy

I am having an extremely busy day today.  Sorry there is no time to write.  Continue to BE YOUR BEST SELF!!!!!!  Have a great day!!!

Punctuality

     How many of you feel punctuality is an important trait to possess?  For those that are habitually late, do they become annoyed when they are left waiting for someone?   Does punctuality mean nothing to them?  Fortunately, I have had jobs most of my life that required me to be very punctual.  There was no room or tolerance for being late.  For those of you that are late regularly, have you ever lost a job due to your inability to show up to work on time?  I would like to think if that ever happened that should be enough to make you more punctual in the future.  I realize that is not the case in many instances.
  Why is it that some people are ALWAYS on time and others are almost ALWAYS late?  This subject is very interesting to me, because I think it is very rude and inconsiderate to leave somebody waiting.  Time is precious and I think it shows complete disregard for someone's time.  As for being late for work, is that a result of poor work ethic or being a horrible manager of time?  Either way, one should probably take a deeper look at how not being punctual has worked for them throughout their life.  I certainly understand that unforeseen things can happen, however with technology of 2012 it should be very easy to communicate that you are running late and why.
     Let's try and practice being more punctual for work and for our friends and family.  I would be interested to hear if making these adjustments makes a positive difference in your life.
BE YOUR BEST SELF!!!!!!

Failure

Lack of will power has caused more failure than lack of intelligence or ability.   
     What does this quote say to you?  For me, it says you be as successful as you desire as long as you have the will power to keep on keepin on.  Everybody seems to want  to attain success overnight.  It is only with determination and fortitude that you will attain success.  One must continue to stay focused on their goals and have the endurance to go the long haul.  Without will power and determination you are destined for failure.  There are so many people with so many great ideas.  Unfortunately, you never hear of most of them because the the creators of the ideas did not possess the will power and determination to see it through to it's fruition.   That is very sad to me in many ways.  I am not sure if that is something you can learn or if it is something that is a part of you.  The will power and determination to attain success,  do you have what it takes?  If any of you have have discovered a product or service that you think may be of use to someone or have some other entrepreneurial idea, don't be afraid to take a risk and live your dream.  Remember, BE YOUR BEST SELF!!!!!

Seasons

A new season, a new beginning?  The change of seasons is a wonderful time to make positive changes in your life and start anew.  Obviously, you can choose any day to start fresh and new but for those of you who have difficulty with change, the change of seasons is a wonderful time for this.  I especially like the transition into Spring and Summer to accomplish this goal.  For those of you who have been entertaining some changes in your life, NOW is a great time to begin.  As the weather becomes warmer and the days are longer this can certainly serve as a feel good time of year to help motivate and jumpstart change.  Take time to smell the flowers and make a change today.  BE YOUR BEST SELF today and everyday!!!!!!

Amazing

Sorry to take a day off but I did not have access to a computer.  Today, however, I was truly wowed!!!!!  I have a great friend of mine who is a college professor on the Master's level.  His students took the initiative to nominate my friend for an award.   Don't you know, HE WON!!!!!!!!   To his surprise, his students had cupcakes and a card (a celebration) if you do not get the picture.  How amazing is that?  To think,  the students had the forethought to nominate him and then to celebrate upon finding out that he won the honor. That gives one hope that there are still people who are selfless and appreciative.   My hat is off to those students who took the initiative to nominate,  follow up, and recognize what an amazing educator my friend happens to be.  There are not any additional words to express how much those events put a smile on my face.  Gives new meaning to BE YOUR BEST SELF!!!!!!  Congratulations Stephen on being such a phenomenal educator and congratulations to the students for being the wonderful, thoughtful people they are.

What I have

If I can't have what I want, let me want what I have.
For me, this is reminiscent of the Rolling Stones song, "You can't always get what you want".....but if you try sometimes, you get what you need.
Too often, we want what others have instead of being happy with what is before us.  I wish more people would focus on themselves and worry less about what others are doing or what others have.
I think we always get what we need in our lives, however to some it may not appear that way.  There are ALWAYS lessons to be learned through all of our experiences.  Additionally, if there is something you want in your life, then go out and make it happen.  Things are not just going to magically appear in your lap.  Let's make an effort to be happy in our current situation and if you feel it could be better, make an effort to make some change.
REMEMBER, BE YOUR BEST SELF TODAY!!!!!!

The Golden Rule

We have committed the Golden Rule to memory; let us now commit it to life.
Do unto others as you would have others do unto you.




Sounds so simple, doesn't it?  Unfortunately, there are far too many people who do not apply this simple concept.  Most people expect everyone to treat them well regardless how they treat that same person.  I am sure everyone has at some point been treated poorly when in fact they treated everyone well.  I believe this is where the problem begins.  When you treat everyone they way you would like to be treated and it is not reciprocated, humans have a tendency to get angry.  They then stop "standing in their truth" of treating people the way they wish to be treated.  This can lead to a vicious cycle of people mistreating each other and throwing  The Golden Rule to the wayside.
If you want to be treated with kindness and respect, continue to treat people in that manner.  There will be times when it is not reciprocated, but why would you want to lower yourself to somebody else's standards?  Stand in your truth and continue to apply The Golden Rule to every aspect of your life.


Have a wonderful day and remember BE YOUR BEST SELF

Making A Difference

The purpose of life is not to be happy - but to matter, to be productive, to be useful, to have it make some difference that you have lived at all. ~Leo Rosten

     I have always been of the contention that if you do all of the aforementioned things then you will be happy. We are all here to figure out what our life's purpose might be and to live it. I know deep in my soul that my purpose is to help and impact as many people as possible throughout my life. I try daily to make a difference in someone's life. The amazing thing is that sometimes that can be done with something as simple as a smile or a pleasant hello. This topic can easily be referenced back to one of my prior statements......if you are not part of the solution, you are part of the problem.
     People have a tendency to believe that they do not make a difference, therefore they opt to do nothing. I disagree with that statement. We should all pitch in and do what we can to make this world a better place. If each of us does just a little, at the end of the day a lot has been accomplished. I am sure everyone has been impacted in a positive way by at least one person during the course of their life.  LET'S MAKE A COMMITMENT TODAY TO MAKE A POSITIVE IMPACT ON AT LEAST ONE PERSON. When you realize how great it makes you feel, you may just want to do it again tomorrow.


Have a day filled with peace and joy.

REMEMBER TO BE YOUR BEST SELF!!!!!

The Personal Touch

    What happened to the personal touch?  By that I mean, why is it that we must always talk to a computer and asked to push a button to get to yet another menu.  Is anyone other than me bothered by this?  Is this a generational thing or is everybody as frustrated as I am?  Isn't it a wonderful thing to make a call to a business and have a real voice answer the phone and actually be able to help you?  I long for the days of people actually carrying on conversations with each other.  Let's face it....email, text, and computers answering phones....what's next?  How about the lost art of letter writing?  I could go on and on.   We have become what I term as the "MOST CONNECTED DISCONNECTED" Society.
     Fifteen years ago most people did not have cell phones, now nobody would know what to do without one.  Let's not forget that we actually lived without having the internet at our fingertips.  This technology dates back even a shorter time.   A mere five years ago, most people did not have 24/7 access to the internet.  Does anyone think our social skills are diminishing as a result of all this "GREAT" technology?
    Let's make an effort to let go of technology periodically and enhance our interpersonal skills.

Have a wonderful day filled with peace and tranquility and remember
BE YOUR BEST SELF!!!!!!

Health

     How many of us take our good health for granted?  When you have it, it feels like it will be that way forever.  Unfortunately, it can be taken from us in a given moment at any time throughout our lives.  Count your blessings if you are one of the ones who wakes up everyday without any ailments and health issues.
   There are too many people in my inner circle currently fighting cancer.  How does one fight cancer?  I am of the belief that a positive attitude goes a a long way coupled with a good diet topped with some spirituality.  The human body is amazing.  We must listen to it however.  When your body tries to tell you something is not quite right, don't ignore it.  Better to get it checked out and be nothing than to wait and have whatever it is consume you.  There are too many of us that brush things off thinking it is nothing.  My philosophy is better to be safe than sorry.   
   I realize there are many who do not have health care in this great United States where we reside, please do not use that as an excuse.  Everybody takes payments.  What difference does it make when you don't have insurance or money if you are not around anyway.   Please take heed to the warning signals your body emits.  Your loved ones would like you to stick around for a while longer.

HAVE A WONDERFUL DAY AND REMEMBER.......BE YOUR BEST SELF!!!!!

A Reason, A Season, A Lifetime

    Are you all familiar with the saying that people come into your life for a reason, a season, a lifetime?  Sometimes it is unclear which of these apply.  At times it can be very perplexing.  I have had people in my life I thought were there for a lifetime and as it turns out it was only a season.  The best is when you think it is only going to be a season and it turns out to be a lifetime.  The value of the reason and season people is not any less, it is just a shorter amount of time.  I have connected with people in my life and realized later that they were only there to facilitate meeting someone else who would be around for a season or a lifetime.  Maybe they are there to help you through a difficult time.   Possibly there to put a smile on your face.   Regardless, value all of the people with whom you are connected.  They are the people who are helping to mold and shape you.    Nobody is put in your life without a  reason.


Be Your Best Self!!!!!

Instincts

     My advice to all of you on this subject is to ALWAYS follow your instincts.  I realize that some of us have better instincts than others.  I, for one, will say that when I follow my instincts they never lead me down the wrong road.  It is when I go against what I am feeling that disaster, or close it, typically happens.
   My goal here is to stress to all of you to follow what is in your gut or in your heart.  My experience has been that it NEVER leads you down the wrong road.  How many times do you do something that doesn't feel right and you do it anyway?  I have done that numerous times and in hindsight, I always wish I had followed my initial gut feeling.   Maybe it is the eternal optimist part of me that lends it's hand to me betraying my gut.  Don't get me wrong, I think it is great to see the best in people, however, don't ignore that nagging feeling that keeps telling you it is not right.
   I believe that when you do not follow your gut that there is a lesson for you to learn through your experience.  Do not get down on yourself for being "foolish", it is just part of your process.  I would not do anything over....the reason is that there is always something to learn from our experiences....good, bad, or ugly.   I am making an attempt to help save you from pain and heartache....listen to your instincts....typically, they never lead you down the wrong road.  One might say...LIVE AND LEARN.
    Have a great day and remember BE YOUR BEST SELF!!!!

Peace

   When the struggles of life get the best of you, how and where do you find peace?  It is so easy to get sucked into the negativity and the sick feeling that comes over you.  What is the difference between those who bounce out of it quickly and those who fall into deep depression and anxiety?   The answers are difficult to ascertain.
    Meditation is always a great option, however there are lots of people who have difficulty sitting still and shutting off their mind.  Turning to friends typically works well for me.  Sometimes you need a sympathetic ear coupled with some great strategies.  For those of you who are not fortunate enough to have anybody in your life with whom you can talk, I recommend writing things down.  This can prove very therapeutic.  When you see your struggles written in black and white,  it can sometimes enable you to see things more clearly.   Exercise is also a very helpful option.  It tires you which enables you to sleep better.  Exercise also gives you a place to let go of your frustration.  Many also turn to God with prayer.
    Whatever works for you is fine, we are all different.  The important thing is to have a means to help you get to a place of peace and tranquility, ideally without the aid of prescription drugs.
One last thing,  we all need to look within to ensure that we are not causing our own problems.  Sometimes we are our own worst enemy.
   Have a wonderful day filled with peace and tranquility. 

Contentment

     I am committed to writing an entry in my blog daily so here goes.  I must admit that I am at a loss of words today.  The sun is shining here in Pittsburgh and I feel a sense of peace, joy, and contentment.  Quite possibly I am so relaxed that my brain refuses to generate any content for me.  If nothing else, I do not want a day to go by without  reaffirming that we should all be living our best lives today.
 stay at  peace.......relax, enjoy, unite!!!!!!

Honesty

      How many people do you think are honest?  Are there good, wholesome, honest people who will still tell a "little white lie" but continue to think they are honest people.

             Honesty - truthfulness, sincerity, or frankness
                            - freedom from deceit or fraud    


Based on the definition of honesty, I would have to conclude that the typically honest person who tells an untruth has now been dishonest.  Is it acceptable to be dishonest "sometimes?"  Is honesty a character trait that is difficult to find?  When you know somebody is lying, do you call them on it or is knowing they lied more valuable?   What is worse, lying about lots of little things or one big thing?  I imagine you could spend hours discussing the aforementioned questions.
      Why would somebody lie and say I didn't hear the phone ring, why not say I didn't feel like talking to you.  Should you tell the truth to somebody who asks your opinion about how they look?  What if they didn't ask your opinion?  I'm sure you have all heard the saying "the truth hurts",  or how about "you can't handle the truth."  Is there something to be said by those statements?
    So I ask myself, by definition, "are there more honest or dishonest people in America?"  I guess it depends on your interpretation of  honesty.   One thing I know for sure, if you are an honest person, stand in your truth of honesty no matter how many times you may be deceived.

BE YOUR BEST SELF!!!!!!!   

A Simple Question

     Are you part of the solution or part of the problem?  One must ask themselves that regarding every part of their life.  Let's explore this simple question a little further.  The first thing that comes to mind for me are basic human relationships.  If you are in a relationship (i.e. friendship, partnership, marriage, etc)  and things are not going so well, you must ask yourself, "Are you part of the solution or part of the problem?"  You are either one or the other.  You can't be both.
    One can explore this subject in every area of their life.  The world is becoming contaminated with garbage and specifically plastic.  So I ask "Are you part of the solution or part of the problem?"  If you do not recycle, you are certainly part of the problem.   You cohabitate with someone and your dwelling is not neat and tidy.....here it comes again,  "Are you part of the solution or part of the problem?"  You must realize that when something needs tended to in your home (i.e. dishes washed, floors cleaned, etc etc) if you do not do it, it will be left to the person with whom you cohabitate.  This is basic consideration for one another,  and if you do not do your share then YOU ARE PART OF THE PROBLEM.  Animosity and tension can build up easily in this type of situation.
      Let's make a commitment today to be the best that we can be so we may unite and live our best life possible.  Become part of the solution as opposed to part of the problem.
                     Never mistake knowledge for wisdom. 
              One helps you make a living, the other helps
                                you make a life.

Inspire

             inspire:    to influence, move, or guide by divine or supernatural  

Inspiration?

      WHAT INSPIRES YOU?  WHERE DO YOU LOOK FOR INSPIRATION?

• It might be something you see while driving down the street
• maybe an act of kindness you witness
• someone who is living their best life
• dedication to something
• something you read in a book
• a beautiful painting or poem
• a rainbow

Inspiration is around you all day everyday.  Sometimes we need to look beyond the surface to find the hidden meaning.  Personally, it is very easy for me to find inspiration.  My daughter inspires me to be a better mother.  My fitness instructors inspire me to push a little harder.  The content for my blog comes from "My Life", hence the title.   My friends inspire me to be a better friend.   I would like each and everyone of you to reflect on what inspires you on a daily basis.  When you find inspiration in the little things in life, it makes living your best life much easier.

I wish you all a wonderful and peaceful day today 


The best way to have a good idea is to have lots of ideas.

Motherhood

     The word that best describes motherhood to me......bittersweet.  These are the worst of times and the best of times.  I have never experienced anything in my life that is so trying yet so rewarding. Even during the trying times, of course, you still love them dearly.  Some days you take deep breaths and hope you don't kill them.  Other days they have you smiling from ear to ear with joy.  Nobody tells you those things  prior to having children.  Maybe somebody does but you either don't listen or think it will be different for you LOLOL.  Although all children are different, one thing they all have in common is the fact that they are children.  They will test your patience one minute and fill you with joy the next.
    This entry would not be complete if I did not talk about babies.....oh babies!!!!!   Who doesn't love a baby?  They are absolutely wonderful and adorable.  You only have to feed them, clothe them, and teach them to talk and walk.   One might argue that time is the most enjoyable period of parenthood.   You may be sleep deprived at the beginning but everything else is pretty darn easy.  Additionally, everyone talks about how expensive babies are......this is incorrect.  Babies are cheap, it is children who are expensive.  I am sure all of you parents would agree.  For those of you who have not had the good fortune to have children, I can only say to treasure the moments you have before you send them off to school.  That is when the difficult part of parenthood begins.

    I have not yet had the wonderful experience of being the parent of a teenager.  Lord knows I have heard horror stories.  I only know what it is like to be a teenager.  I wouldn't do that over again if given the opportunity.  If anybody would like to share their experience with raising a teenager, I would welcome the advice.  Someone far wiser than me said to me while I was pregnant with my daughter, "You are about to embark on the best and hardest thing you will ever do in your life."  I couldn't have said it better myself...it defines parenthood perfectly.
  I would like to give a special shout out to my cousin David for that great advice.

Women

Where would I be without the beautiful ladies in my life I call friends?  To dwell on this earth without them would be like asking to give up your heart (literally) and still be able to survive.  This is how vital they are to your well-being.  I am sure many of you agree with that statement.  The camaraderie we share is unequivocal.  We cry together, laugh together, and support one another through good times and bad.  If only our marriages could be so strong, the divorce rate would undoubtedly be much lower.  Please don't misunderstand what I am saying....there certainly have been severed relationships among girlfriends.  Just as you can get married and think you have chosen the right partner, you can make the same mistakes with a girlfriend, but it is far less likely to happen.  Women, especially as we get older, raise each other up and want nothing but good things to those who are fortunate enough to be in our circle of life.
     I have been blessed with what I perceive as some of the greatest women in the world in my life.  Without them, my days and nights would be darker and my sorrow certainly would last longer.  Do we ever disagree or possibly have an argument....of course.  The bond we share supersedes any disagreement or argument.   They are the ones who tell you the truth whether you want to hear it or not.  No need to sugarcoat,  we have an understanding and realize the message is delivered with love whether we want to hear it or not.
     For all of you who share these beautiful friendships,  count your blessings.  Be sure and take time to let them know how much you love and appreciate them today.  As a rule, women are very under appreciated.  To all the women in my life let me take this time to let you know how much I love each and everyone of you and honestly would not know what to do without you.
   Have a wonderful day!!!!!!

I'm Sorry

What words do you say when someone near and dear to you is going through a very difficult time?  Are there any words that are enough?  How do you comfort that person or is that even possible?
I wish I had the answers to all of those questions.  Is dealing with the death of a loved  one the same as dealing with any other hardship?
Even when heartfelt, words can sometimes seem so meaningless and ritualistic.  I am sure the person suffering understands that there is nothing anybody can really do for them.  Help lift their spirits and know that in time this too shall pass.  Difficult words to swallow when you are the one suffering.   But the truth remains, this too shall pass as the hands of father time tick away.
    Difficult subject to talk about but I am sure you all may have some wonderful ideas on what you think makes a difference in people's lives when they are going through pain and suffering.  Feel free to share.   A wonderful day to all!!!!!

The Winter of Life

On a daily basis everybody hears people making excuses for different things in their life.  We all have hurdles we must clear daily.  Some people certainly have more struggles than others but it is really how we perceive things that is most important.  Remember, happiness is a choice....there is nothing different about the people in the world who are happy and those who are not.   It is how we deal with the daily strifes that separate the happy from the unhappy.

   I would like to share a story with you by an unknown author.  I wish I had written this, however I can not take credit but I certainly feel the same sentiments as the author.

    And then it is Winter........

                  You know.....time has a way of moving quickly and catching you unaware of the passing years.  

It seems just yesterday that I was young,

just married and embarking on my new life with my mate.

And yet in a way, it seems like eons ago,

and I wonder where all the years went.

I know that I lived them all...

And i have glimpses of how it was back then and of all my hopes and dreams...

But, her it is...the winter of my life and it catches me by surprise...

How did I get here so fast?

Where did the years go and where did my youth go?

I remember well....

seeing older people through the years and thinking that those older people were years away from me and that winter was so far off

that I could not fathom it or imagine fully what it would be like....

But, here it is...

my friends are retired and getting grey...

they move slower and I see an older person now.

Some are in better and some worse shape than me...

but, I see the great change....

Not like the ones that I remember who were young and vibrant...

but, like me, their age is beginning to show and we are now those older folks that we used to see and never thought we'd be.

Each day now, I find that just getting shower is a real target for the day!!!!

And taking a nap is not a treat anymore...it's mandatory!!!

Cause if I don't on my own free will...I just fall asleep where I sit!!

And so...

now I enter into this season of my life unprepared

for the aches and pains and the loss of strength and ability

to go and do things that I wish I had done but never did!!!

But, at least I know, that though the winter has come, and I'm not sure how long it will last...

this I know, that when it's over, it's over...

Yes, I have regrets.  There are things I wish I hadn't done..

things I should have done, but indeed, there are many things I'm happy to have done.

It's all in a lifetime...

So, if you're not in your winter yet...

let me remind you, that it will be here faster than you think.

So, whatever you would like to accomplish in your life please do it quickly!!

Don't put things off too long!!

Life goes by quickly. So, do what you can today,

as you can never be sure whether this is your winter or not!!

You have no promise that you will see all the seasons of your life...so, live for today and say all the things that you want your loved ones to remember...

and hope that they appreciate and love you for all the things

that you have done for them in all the years past!!!!

The way you live your life is your gift to those who come after.

Make it a fantastic one.

LIVE IT WELL

ENJOY TODAY

DO SOMETHING FUN

BE HAPPY

BE THANKFUL

HAVE A GREAT DAY

REMEMBER, " IT IS HEALTH THAT IS REAL WEALTH AND NOT PIECES OF GOLD OR SILVER."

So that my friends is the sentiment I wish to share with you today.  Make it a great day, stay positive, don't make excuses (take responsibility),  you never know when you are in the winter season of your life.

2012

Has anybody made a New Year's Resolution and still sticking to it?  We all start out with such great intentions with a fresh start of a new year.  Maybe we ought not put so much emphasis on the new year and look at each day as a new beginning.  We need not wait til a new year begins to make positive changes in our lives.  It is March 4, 2012.  If you made a resolution and did not stick to it or if you did not make one but would like to make positive changes in your life......start today.  Most of the battle is truly having the desire to make a change.
    I struggled with smoking cigarettes for years and wanted to quit.  I tried and tried unsuccessfully.  One day back in September I was smoking a cigarette on my porch and decided I would smoke the last 2 cigarettes in my pack and I would no longer be a slave to cigarettes.  The reason I share this story is to reinforce that everyday is a new beginning and you can make changes anytime.  I did the same thing with exercise.  I decided in July 2010 that I did not want to be an overweight middle aged woman.  I started an exercise regimen and have continued through today.
   REMEMBER....you must truly have the desire for change and train your brain to think with your new thoughts.  It is so much easier to keep doing what we always do, but change is usually good.....STOP RESISTING.....Make a Change.

Hello

I apologize for my rudeness, my name is Susan and I am very happy to be here and look forward to my relationship with all of you as we walk together through this thing called "Life".

Hello

Hello everyone.  What a challenge this was to get a name that has not already been taken.  After dozens of attempts and much frustration, I finally got relaxenjoyunite.  I tried to name my blog something that might resonate with most human beings.  Although I felt every name prior to this was better, after getting this name by default, I am feeling it.  What more could we want in life but to relax, enjoy, and unite?  We would be much better served living in this fashion.  Why do we as humans choose to complicate our lives as well as those around us?  Certainly something to ponder.
    I shall return tomorrow to add to my new blog.  Let me take this time to pat myself on the back for moving forward in trying to share my knowledge and shed some light.