(Written Memorial Day Weekend 2015)
Memorial Day Weekend
. . . is often filled with barbecues, gatherings and relaxation and is often concluded on a sombre note as those who died in service to our country are remembered.
Mother Teresa is quoted saying, “I was once asked why I don't participate in anti-war demonstrations. I said that I will never do that, but as soon as you have a pro-peace rally, I'll be there.”
Similarly, I am choosing to find the silver-lining in Memorial Day: that is, gratitude.
We have so much to be grateful for in this country and I thought this would be a great opportunity to share a post that I've wanted to polish-off for a while . . .
The Many Ways to Say Thank You
Whether it be a deceased veteran, a friend, or neighbor; we can all think of someone to whom we would like to express our gratitude.
Memorial Day is a great reminder to show our thanks to the many around us who have helped us in our daily battles.
The act of being grateful moves us in the direction of seeing the good in our lives- including in other people.
For today, along with sending prayers to our fallen veterans, thank someone who is in your life right now. There are so many ways to do this:
- Send a little Thank You, even if it's on a small pieces of paper saying, "I appreciate it when/that you . . ." (wash the dishes, smile so much, take care of . . .)
- Simply say "Thank you"
- Take note of what the person to whom you'd like to show appreciation likes: food, coffee, help around the house, a kind word; (strive to know and act on their Love Language) and treat them as often as possible to this gift of appreciation and thanks!
- The best "thank you's" are when someone is not expecting it. Comment favorably on something you admire that is particular to that person, hint- what does that person appear to put a great amount of effort into? Be sincere and make it about them!
- Want an extra challenge? Most of us think that in order to convey a loving thought to someone that we need to do it by tangible means, i.e. face-to-face, over the phone or perhaps written. We can just as powerfully convey a message by sending a blessing of love, peace or forgiveness or what some may call a prayer. This is especially helpful when we feel the need to forgive, thank or recognize someone who is deceased or otherwise not part of our lives. Send a silent message. Believe me, this type of internet has been around a lot longer than that with computers as the senders and receivers!
Being in the habit of pointing out the gems in people, places and things helps us to have a more positive outlook in life and less desire to cause harm.
In the end, I hope the only casualty we cause is the need for war.
Wishing you much Peace and Love today and always,
Tara
P.S. this all applies to the relationship one has with oneself too :)
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