October 6, 2009

Appreciating Life


READY8 “As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them.” ~ John F. Kennedy

AIM8 Being a parent is a rewarding job. However, it definitely comes with its daily challenges. It seems that everybody needs something, needs someone or needs to go somewhere. It is so easy to get lost or caught up in the craziness of keeping the family on track that it’s hard to find quiet time to spend alone in an attempt to retain your sanity.
The good news is that while your children are young and life is zooming by – you can truly find joy in every hectic moment. Pause for a second while you are taking your turn driving the car full of football players to practice in order to appreciate healthy kids who can run and jump and enjoy team sports. While you are dusting the furniture or sweeping up crumbs from under the kitchen table, again, be grateful for the blessing of a safe, warm home for your family and food for your nourishment. Your family responds to your words and actions. We need to show them that we recognize those moments of joy in our everyday, ordinary routines and activities.
So as you prepare to go to bed tonight, and every night, be thankful for the energy and strength to have survived one more crazy, joy-filled day!

FIRE8 Take 30 seconds to write down people or things you appreciate. During dinner (or breakfast), talk with your family about who or what they appreciate and share your list with them.

Be Excellent!
Lori

1 comment:

  1. I had one of thes 'ahh' moments the other night. I took Ryleigh to the fireworks and when they started we layed down on the blanket watching them together. I had my arm around her and snuggled her close. She said "You know what Mama? I LOVE you!" It made my heart melt and made me realized how blessed I am to be able to have these moments with her.

    ReplyDelete