Chapter Four: Hope

My hope is that when I die, people would know that I was a follower or Jesus, compassionate, understanding, thoughtful and kind. Sometimes it's REALLY hard to be all those things to all people. As you know, I'm certain, there are people that come into our lives that will push our buttons further than they've ever been pushed. Step one: Breathe. Step two: Take a step back and really listen. Instead of talking just to hear yourself, listen. People just want to be heard. I've have learn through the years that people are hurting. They've been beaten down, broken hearted, and are just trying to survive this rough thing we call the world. Step three: Be compassionate. Have a heart. Love people. Unless you know their story and can be a helpful friend in a situation, just love them. That's the best thing anyone can get can - unconditional love. 

I have been that hypocritical, judging, face smirking girl and oh, do I wish I could have known then what I know now. First Corinthians 13: 4-8 says, "Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails." What a command from The Lord. Why use any other method for understanding people? Hatred takes way too much energy and it really doesn't make you feel any better. Because all you're doing to trying to make them feel like you..."misery loves company"...sound familiar? Every day I TRY and see people from a different perspective. Like I've said, there's always a back story. And it's NOT my place to analyze or fix people. I'll fail every time. 

Be the person that comes into the lives of others and make them say "Wow! What a breath of fresh air!" Be the sparkle, the game changer, the motivator, the encourager. We NEED more than ever to lean on each other. We can not bear any fruit without each other! 

Tip for the day: Be the change you wish to see in the world. It all starts with one. One person putting into action what words can never accomplish. Give a hug, pat a back, slap a high five...something that  tells people you CARE.