You all remember this picture, right?
When life hands you lemons, make lemonade?
Well, after last week’s post on West Nile and having received some very kind and healing words from you all—thank you very much by the way—it made me think.
Uh-oh, I know that might sound dangerous!
I began to think about just how much everyone seems to be dealing with these days.
When we engage in conversation or a relationship via the internet, we tend to put our best foot forward. It, the internet, becomes a comfortable screen that we may hide behind. After all, no one can see us. What we say represents who we are. So we hope.
But what we don’t know, and cannot know because of this unique realm of invisibility is—how is the other person who we are conversing with? They may sound chipper and happy, perhaps even supportive. Yet, what things in their life have they experienced or are currently experiencing and how are they coping?
First of all, think about what you’ve all accomplished over a relatively short time.
There are a great number of you who are experiencing pretty amazing things in your life. Some have already published books and are on the road to success. Meanwhile, you’re Writing, Blogging, Tweeting and well, let’s just say that you’ve become very social. 🙂
Congratulations to you all!
And then there are the rest of us that are right behind you. This is such an exciting time!
However, some of you are pulling double or triple duty. You’re working, parenting, writing and publishing. You’re involved in the many extra-curricular activities that revolve around your children or aged parents. You’re also cooking, cleaning, washing, shopping and again, writing.
You all need an award!
But then there are the other things. You know, the things that we may keep to ourselves not wanting to share the burden with anyone else. Yes, the personal stuff. After all, we must keep up appearances, mustn’t we?
Let’s face it. Life happens. Yes life and the many things that happen out of our normal routine. Yet, how do we get through it? Ah, that’s the piece of the puzzle that seems to be different for each and every one of us. And because of that difference, that’s when we need to apply that little word from above—Respect. If we apply a little respect to the other person, it gives them dignity and makes it pretty hard for us to judge one another.
I want you to know that y’all are awesome about this! After last week I just want to give you guys a big hug!
Think about it. Had I not blogged about my experience with a life threatening virus, would you all have known about it? Probably not. Yet there are so many of you who have also dealt with serious issues such as the death of a loved one, a severe health issue, a divorce, a family crisis, a financial crises, the loss of a home, the loss of a job, burn-out, depression and the list goes on.
What, you thought that I was the only one who’s had problems?
So what can we do?
Show one another Respect. You know, what Aretha sang about. And no, I will not be singing to ya! Okay, maybe just a little bit.
Here’s a little R-E-S-P-E-C-T:
Relevant- Each an every one of us is important. Each of us plays a key role in another’s life besides our own.
Esteem- Admire and appreciate one another. We need to give ourselves value and overall worth.
Sense- If you get a feeling from someone that something is wrong, be supportive. Look for ways in which you can give added strength.
Prize- We are each exceptional, desirable individuals. There is no competition here. We all have something special to offer.
Enjoyment- Every one of us possess the ability to entertain and give others a sense of immense joy and happiness.
Cherish- Cultivate long-lasting affection and care to family and friends.
Tribute- Acknowledge others with generous gratitude and appreciation.
With much gratitude and affection I want to thank you all for your support!
So what do you think? Have you been overwhelmed lately? Has life thrown you a curve? Are you suffering from burn-out? What have you found helpful to replenish your energy and focus? What time do you make for the more important things in your life? What has helped you to feel grateful and full of appreciation?
