Reflections

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  1. D
    Deann
    1 week ago

    I used kind words and tried to listen intently today. It wasn’t much but it was authentic and sometimes the simple act of “ seeing” a stranger will result in paying kindness forward.

  2. Presley Gleason
    PMoney$
    1 week ago

    I want to be an artist for my career and I have a really difficult disability. My persistence can show others that they can do hard things!

  3. Robin Ann
    Robin Ann
    1 week ago

    I can be respectful visiting different countries and learning about different cultures and people I encounter.

    I can try to stay informed at my job and personal life and be kind and thoughtful with all of my actions.

    I can attend Mass and pray for peace in our world.

  4. sparrow51014
    sparrow
    1 week ago

    I’ve been tossing the Question around in my head all day,
    and frankly,
    have come up with nothing
    other than my own measly little life . . .
    I will do nothing Big
    because my voice is not loud enough,
    and I don’t have the resources
    to reach out to the world . . .
    I can only do my best
    to spread peace and harmony
    within my isolated little sphere.
    Seems like such a small thing
    in light of the horrendous tragedies that are going on
    every single day. ♥

    1. S
      Suzanne S
      5 days ago

      Your posts have made a difference to me. Thank you.

      1. sparrow51014
        sparrow
        5 days ago

        Yours
        have made a difference to me too,
        dear Suzanne.
        That’s the nature of this space. ♥️

    2. Barb C
      Barb C
      1 week ago

      Anything you do is more than nothing. We all do what we can do. How could we expect ourselves to do more than we can do?

      1. sparrow51014
        sparrow
        1 week ago

        That’s completely true,
        dear Barb…
        it’s just frustrating sometimes
        that I can’t do more. ♥

    3. D
      Deann
      1 week ago

      You spread so much peace and harmony here with your words we in turn spread your gifts to others throughout the day. Always know you make a difference.

      1. sparrow51014
        sparrow
        1 week ago

        …and you spread your gifts to me,
        dear Deann…
        thank you for reminding me of this. ♥

    4. L
      Loc Tran
      1 week ago

      Sparrow, I share the same sentiment regarding mental health and autism advocacy. I’ve switched over to focusing on myself and bettering the people around me instead. These fields are broad. I come from a traditional culture. I don’t have the resources.
      Switching over to my little world makes a huge difference. The little things add up.

      1. sparrow51014
        sparrow
        1 week ago

        I know,
        dear Loc . . .
        I was speaking from a place I sometimes go.
        Yes,
        and thanks . . .
        the little things add up,
        but sometimes I feel helpless to do more.
        I’ve always done my best to bring peace and light
        wherever I go,
        and I do know that it counts . . .
        everything counts,
        whether it be for positive
        or the negative.

        1. Mary
          Mary
          1 week ago

          Your posts in this space contain so much wisdom, Sparrow.
          Grateful.org has members all over the world.
          More people may read your posts than you know.
          Your light may shine further than you realize. ☀️✨✨✨

          1. sparrow51014
            sparrow
            1 week ago

            Thank you for this,
            dear Mary.
            Your encouragement
            (and encouragement of others)
            means the world to me.
            There is not much spiritual support
            in the physical space I live in. ♥

        2. L
          Loc Tran
          1 week ago

          No problem, Sparrow. This sounds familiar. I’ve desired to do a lot before. It left me feeling incompatent. Our abilities don’t always allow us to do as we desire. Learning to be more satisfied with my efforts has helped me reduce fear of incompatence.

  5. Barb C
    Barb C
    1 week ago

    One of the things I already have is a wide, deep, rich network of warm professional connections around the country (and beyond to some extent). I and others on my work team are using our connections to help build a library of resources to salvage and archive materials that are being/have been deleted from federal sites that we rely on. In one topical area a national nonprofit is stepping up; in another, a university.

    The knowledge, caring and tools to speak every time there’s an opportunity are things I have. Silence equals assent.

    I was just on one of those web pages that has disappeared and got a pop-up asking if I’d give feedback on the site. Darn right I would! I commented to give them my sympathies for working in the federal government at such a time of upheaval and expressed my concern that they’re deleting materials I rely on. I could have just closed the pop-up but I’m going to respond to every opportunity, everywhere, to say when things are wrong. The people’s knowledge that we invested in is being removed. Doing exactly this–rewriting and erasing history and knowledge–was Winston Smith’s job in the novel 1984, which we all recognize was about a dystopian future we didn’t want to live in.

    I know writing to our members of Congress does matter because they need to hear from constituents that we support their leadership (or want it to change, depending on your district). I’ll be doing that tonight.

    We need to tell the leaders we agree with that we support them so they can say they’re representing their constituents. As I write this I realized I also need to write to my newly elected governor to thank him for his leadership. I’m sure he’s hearing from people who disagree.

    On another scale, another topic, I just shared my family’s bran muffin recipe with my team in case they want to do some baking this weekend (https://biketoworkbarb.blogspot.com/2024/07/classic-all-branbran-buds-muffin-recipe.html). I’m eating a couple of muffins as I type this, topped with raspberry and tayberry jams I made last weekend.

    I appreciate Suzanne S’s comment about making sure we maintain our own energy to support resistance. After I finish my muffins I’m going for a walk in the big nearby park, which is one of the most restorative things I have access to.

    We’re not often political in this space. I’m counting on all of us wanting the world to be a good place for everyone and saying that it’s threatened. Remaining silent here would be like remaining silent in other spaces and other communities.

    1. Elizabeth H67151
      Elizabeth H
      1 week ago

      Thank you for all that you are doing, Barb! Having that wide, deep, rich network of connections is indeed important and I am glad that you are able to put it to good use. I have been inspired by The Resistance Guidebook ( https://wagingnonviolence.org/links/resistance-guidebook/ ). It is short and easy to read. It offers 4 paths a person can choose from to “help stand for a world with tolerance and love, racial justice and acceptance of all people.”

    2. Yram
      Yram
      1 week ago

      I just made bran muffins the other day. To my surprise I must have tossed the pans when downsizing. So I used ramekins. Not tge same but turned out. Thanks for sharing.
      Thanks for the work you do.

    3. S
      Suzanne S
      1 week ago

      I I agree with your comments about contacting our elected officials. I use the app 5 Calls and ended up making calls on eight issues tonight. Thank you for that reminder. It felt nice to engage in that way.

    4. L
      Loc Tran
      1 week ago

      Barb, those muffins sound delicious. As far as those walks go, they’re relaxing. I remember vaguely that you’re from New Orleans. If so, being where you are, you get to walk out in nature year round. Up in Minnesota, we only get to do that from May-October. In the winter, we go to the mall to do that.

      1. Michele
        Michele
        1 week ago

        I believe Barb is from the Olympia, WA area – Carol had lived in New Orleans 🙂

        1. Barb C
          Barb C
          1 week ago

          Yep, Olympia has been home since fall 2020. I’ve always lived in the Pacific Northwest–north Idaho, then eastern Washington, and now western WA where I plan to stay the rest of my life.

        2. L
          Loc Tran
          1 week ago

          LOL, Michele, I just confused the 2.

  6. Pranaji Nix
    Pranaji Nix
    2 weeks ago

    By using it not destroying it all

  7. Ose
    Ose
    2 weeks ago

    As sharing already what i can offer with the ones around me here where i live, with dear friends around, as well as with kindred hearts and also strangers when i come to meet them here, listening, exchanging, enjoying being together and sharing what is to be shared. Also being here regularly in this forum and replying to the daily questions, sharing with kindness and honesty what is to be pondered on.. Wishing all a beautiful day.

    1. L
      Loc Tran
      1 week ago

      Ose, I’ve been making my way back here more regularly since last week as well. It’s helped me transform my Facebook addiction into a hobby. I feel productive, because I’m contributing to something meanningful. Members here have a lot of wisdom to share.
      Filler reading is fun. It loses its novelty quickly when there are no more likes and comments. Fortunately, I’m not the gossip type. I’m well aware of how social media can increase those temptations.

  8. Mary
    Mary
    2 weeks ago

    I can have good eye contact with people I see and speak to today.
    Good eye contact is necessary to really see a person
    and the person will feel that.
    Todays word of the day by Jane Goodall reminds me
    to make my impact on the world today a positive one.
    Sending love to all.
    ♥️

    1. L
      Loc Tran
      1 week ago

      Mary, well said concerning eye contact. We live in a society of the eye. Impressions carry weight.

  9. Yram
    Yram
    2 weeks ago

    I have had positive feed back when I reach out to someone. That will be my focus today.
    My smile goes out to all here.

    1. Mary
      Mary
      1 week ago

      And mine, back to you, Yram

  10. S
    Suzanne S
    2 weeks ago

    If I use my resources to keep myself regulated, I can be a calm presence regardless of what is going on around me. Then with my extra help those around me. This has felt like a form of resistance also.

    1. c
      Carol Ann
      1 week ago

      well said, Suzanne. thank you.

  11. C
    Carly J
    2 weeks ago

    I can use my creativity to find something unexpected to do to get my husband out of the house – in an effort to shift his mindset. Cancer treatment has him frustrated and you can feel the tension in the house. Wish me luck.

    1. sparrow51014
      sparrow
      1 week ago

      My husband
      has no excuse to stay on the sofa,
      dear Carly,
      and it is difficult to inspire him to action…
      do you have a support system where you live?
      Many men
      don’t like to talk about their frustrations and feelings,
      but maybe finding a group for you
      and a group for him
      could help to open the door
      with love…♥

    2. Elizabeth H67151
      Elizabeth H
      1 week ago

      I am so sorry to hear of frustration your husband is filling regarding cancer treatment, Carly J! It is indeed difficult when someone we live with is in a negative mental state and it pervades the house. When times have been difficult for me as a caregiver, one book I have found extremely helpful is “The Caregiver’s Tao Te Ching”, by William and Nancy Martin. It is a series of short translations from the Tao Te Ching followed by commentary: each section is just 1-2 pages long so even when I am busy I can take 2 minutes to sit down and read a page and it changes my perspective. https://bookshop.org/p/books/the-caregiver-s-tao-te-ching-compassionate-caring-for-your-loved-ones-and-yourself-william-martin/6894661?ean=9781577318880&next=t&next=t

    3. Mary
      Mary Mantei
      1 week ago

      A change of scenery can shift our mind, Carly. Good idea. All the best in your efforts.🙏

    4. Yram
      Yram
      2 weeks ago

      A very tough chore. Let me know what you come up with. The amount of energy needed just to stay on top of it all is taxing. Then to have to think about going out of a comfort zone is way too much. Sometimes I go out and let him be.

  12. Charlie T
    Charlie T
    2 weeks ago

    This is a good question, as I’m feeling rather powerless lately. What I can do, is be kind to those around me and speak my truths when I can.
    I can also stand up and be counted and make sure those around me are safe.

  13. L
    Lauryn
    2 weeks ago

    A few things came to mind this morning-

    Time. My partner is currently working more hours than me. I can use the extra time I have alone at home this weekend to clean up the house and yard a bit.

    Knowledge. I use my knowledge of immigration law to help people every day. More recently, this also involves easing anxiety and worry.

    My reusable grocery bag. I actually remembered to being it with me this morning. That’s one less Publix plastic bag used.

    My passion for cat and kitten rescue. I’m pretty knowledgeable about raising kittens, and taking care of cats (I have 7 of my own). I can do a bit of research to find a nearby cat rescue where I might be able to volunteer my time.

    My many years as a house dj. While I’m no longer going out to clubs and parties, I do still very much enjoy sharing music with others. I could reach out to a few local bars/lounges to see if they are interested in having me play a dj set sometime.

    1. Michele
      Michele
      1 week ago

      Like you and Howie, I also keep reusable grocery bags in my car. I don’t know why Publix still uses plastic and hasn’t gone back to the old large brown paper ones, at least they are biodegradable.

      1. sparrow51014
        sparrow
        1 week ago

        Where I live,
        dear Michelle
        people have been bringing their own bags to stores and shops
        for years…
        at first
        I forgot a lot,
        but soon became a habit. ♥

    2. Mary
      Mary
      1 week ago

      I love the way you thought about how you can make a difference
      in so many fronts, Lauren!

    3. Howie Geib97277
      Howie Geib
      1 week ago

      Lauryn…I have a rule…if I walk into Publix without a reusable bag I have to buy another. The 1.99 or whatever is a small price compared to the horrible things those bags do to all kinds of critters. I have a LOT of reusable bags LOL…but also have developed a pretty safe system to make sure there are some always in the car….also I have on occasion just put the purchased things in the cart and taken them to my car and then when home gone and gotten the bags to bring the stuff in the house. Those horrible plastic bags should be illegal.

      1. Mary
        Mary
        1 week ago

        They should be outlawed.

      2. Joseph
        Joseph McCann
        1 week ago

        They have outlawed those in Colorado. Microplastics are now found in the snowpack along the Continental Divide.

        1. Mary
          Mary Mantei
          1 week ago

          Heartbreaking, Joseph.

  14. Elizabeth H67151
    Elizabeth H
    2 weeks ago

    I have a lot, and am very fortunate. However, today the answer that comes to mind is that I have shared vulnerability and grief. I have been feeling extremely sad, heavy, despondent, and constricted in the last few days based on what is going on in the world. And I have felt ashamed for feeling that way because it feels like the powers that be want us to feel that way so I feel like I am succumbing to what they want. This morning, I paused for a moment to ask the Divine for help, and what came to my mind is, “it’s not just you, you are not alone in feeling this way.” Somehow, I was feeling very isolated in my feelings of grief and powerlessness.

    So, I share with many, many people feelings of deep grief. I can share my vulnerability and not just pretend to everyone like life is “business as usual”. I also have the learning I have received over the years about movements of active nonviolence, and I have been writing letters to the editor based in these principles. I have the desire to connect with and be empowered with others, and have organized a small “Be Connected” group that shares emails and sometimes meets in person (as we plan to do in a couple of weeks for further practice in Bystander Intervention).

    And I have the ability to give small acts of kindness– I was very inspired by the Grateful.org quote from a few days ago and wrote it down, “We can never underestimate this truth: No matter who you are, the biggest thing you do in any day is most often going to be a small act of kindness, decency, or love.” – Cory Booker

    1. Mary
      Mary Mantei
      1 week ago

      Thank you, Elizabeth. ❤️

    2. Yram
      Yram
      2 weeks ago

      YES

  15. Patti
    sunnypatti
    2 weeks ago

    By being gentle and kind with all whom I encounter. Smile at others when I’m out with the dogs or running errands. Bring some joy to my husband, as I am celebrating his birthday all weekend. He deserves a full weekend celebration, and I’ve got some fun things lined up 🙂

    1. Yram
      Yram
      2 weeks ago

      Enjoy! I would love to hear what you enjoyed and had planned.

      1. Patti
        sunnypatti
        1 week ago

        We kept it simple yesterday, but I made him his favorite healthy dinner – a big salad topped with rotisserie chicken. Today, however, I’m going to take him and the dogs to a different park in the city to mix it up, out to lunch at a still undecided spot and then tonight I’m surprising him… I bought tickets to a comedy show and it’s one of his favorite comedians. I don’t think he knows this guy is in town, so it should be a lot of fun! As football lovers, we’ll be watching the Super Bowl tomorrow, so I’ve got fun food planned and a I’m going to get him a cookie cake for his birthday. I’m trying to figure out what I can squeeze in on Monday, his actual birthday, but I’m starting a new trade job at the yoga studio I go to, so I’m not sure how that will pan out since I’ll be gone from 3-8:30. Maybe just some yummy takeout when I finish my day 🙂

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