Faerie Tale

My friend Mary Groce wrote a lovely book called "Aunt Cora’s Wart, an Historical Faerie Tale." In a happy and gentle way she discusses philosophy and history. Most importantly, the main character gets lots of self-esteem building.

I was lucky to have a family who made me feel special and important. That feeling is the foundation that supports everything I do, from encouraging others to being strong enough to face many trials.

If you have young people in your life, please do all you can to make them feel special and important. It's amazing what kind words can accomplish when used freely and frequently.

And don't forget – no matter how old you are, right now and always, YOU are wonderful and make a difference in this world just by being you.

positive, masculine interactions

One positive I have noticed in entertainment – men hug each other.

While I have seen it on TV and movies in recent years, I think it is a fairly new phenomenon. Handshakes and high-fives have long been acceptable male interactions. It's really nice to see men start with a handshake, pull each other in for a hug and a strong pat on the back.

I've also seen fathers giving sons a kiss on the head. These are excellent examples of what we need to see more of in the media. Hugs and kisses aren't exciting and adventurous, but they can help find solutions to problems.

Netflix DVD recommendation – Necessary Roughness which used to be on the USA Network. Lots of examples of positive, masculine interactions.

limiting

Limiting guns is important. But also, we should be limiting the amount of violence we enjoy in our entertainment.

It seems as if we are condoning violence because it is used every day on TV and in the movies. I can't find anyone else who is saying this.

Am I the only one bothered by this? Am I the only one that sees a connection between our "violence is exciting, adventurous, and a possible solution to any problem" attitude and the violence that we see in the real world?

I usually try to stick to promoting the positive. I think I've been quiet too long. I'm going to start speaking out against the violence that is dousing the light of the world.

Wishing you all love and light!

sappy

On Twitter I saw a picture of 2 children with obvious differences interacting happily. The caption was, "Race: Humanity; Religion: Love." 

It is difficult to ignore differences. Rather, I think they should be embraced. How can we help others feel good about differences? How can we remove fear and hatred of the unknown?

How do we show others that LOVE is what we all have in common? We all want it and we all have some to give. How do we match up the love givers with those in need? I suppose we all have different views about what love is.

There are no easy answers to my questions. But I think it's important to keep talking about love. Even more important to keep offering love to others. Just a simple smile can do wonders.

My thoughts may sound sappy, but maybe that's what we need!

Today's Special

I try to avoid violence in the movies and TV shows I watch. So, I decided to begin posting brief entertainment recommendations for others who feel the same way.

Recommendation: "Today's Special" streamed on Netflix, a nice story about a chef, his family and their restaurant. 7/10 stars.

Memorial Day

Wishing you a blessed Memorial Day. It may not be a happy occasion, but I hope that we all focus on the happy memories we have of those brave men and women who fought to keep our country free and safe.

your actions

Action may not always bring happiness; but there is no happiness without action. - Benjamin Disraeli

I really like this quote. There is so much out there telling us to think positively. I agree and encourage everyone to try it. But it is not enough to think. Our actions must also be positive. If we have something we want, think and pray, but also figure out the steps we need to take to achieve that something we want.

Some goals seem daunting, but when you break them up into smaller steps, you can reach them. And by all means, set your goals beyond your wildest dreams. You might be surprised that "beyond" is nearer than you think.

Be bold, think happy thoughts and let your actions take you to new heights.