When I treat myself, I love an extra hot Venti Cinnamon Dolce Latte (sugar free) from Starbucks or a Diet Coke and Reese Cup. These simple little things bring me great joy and are truly a treat.
Last year, I was looking for a journal (a treat for myself) and stumbled upon this cool desk calendar. 3,650 Things to be Happy About, by Barbara Ann Kipfer. Being a lover of the million little things that bring joy to my day, I was intrigued.
One was opened, so I began to flip through it. 10 items a day, everyday. How very cool! Giggling with excitement, I decide to treat myself to this wonderful little treasure. 2 months have passed and I must say, it has been one of the greatest gifts I've ever given myself. I love tearing off the page, anxiously awaiting the next 10 things.
I have not always agreed with some of them, but that is to be expected as everyone does not like the same things. And then, there are the things that I have to "good search" to see what they are. (Sorry Google, Good Searching makes sense, as they help out my little non profit.) I have learned something new from this calendar nearly every other day! For instance, did not know what a Yurt was. Go on...Good Search it, if you need to. I did.
I decided to try and list 10 things a day for a week to see what I would come up with. Some have to do with things that happened on that day - others, are just random things that popped into my head. Here they are in no particular order:
Monday: Full moon hanging on a cloud, Gel Pens, soft Kleenex, board games, belly laughs, waking to a kiss, cool sunglasses, soft carpet, Atomic Fireballs, White out.
Tuesday: American Flag, rolling fog, cute note pads, making cotton candy, cloud shapes, Hot chocolate with marshmallows, Handwritten notes, roller coasters, forgiveness, Reese Cups with a Diet Coke
Thursday: Watching my children sleep, Anticipating Christmas morning, huge sliding boards, Ringling Brothers Circus, itouch, Animal cookies, listening to rain, Long lingering HUGS, Hope, Blue Roses
Friday: Little Debbie Cakes, homemade lemonade, reading poetry, Old books from the thrift store, Service Men & Women, Breakfast for dinner, Choices, PB&J with Glass of Milk, Disney Classics, hot peanut butter cookies out of the oven
Saturday: Toddlers that ask millions of questions, Being safe in God's arms, Singing loudly in the car, Sitting sideways in overstuffed chairs, quotes, Falling asleep listening to the ocean lap against the shore, Watching my kids make the right decision, reading poetry, Policemen & Firefighters, Riding with all the windows down in the car
Sunday: Coconut Cake, Having the Bible ready available in hand or online, Universal Studios, Unsweetened Iced Tea, Monkeys on anything and everything, See sawing with a friend, Blowing Bubbles, Cute adorable socks, m&m's, handmade bracelets
The art of being happy lies in the power of extracting happiness from common things.--Henry Ward Beecher
These are just a few things that make me happy. What about you? Can you list 10 things a day that make you happy, so that at the end of the year you'll have your very own 3,650 things to be happy about? What about listing 10 things a day that are simply happy things? For example, spaghetti dinners do not make me happy, as I do not like any form of pasta. But - being at the spaghetti dinner with smiling friends and getting warm hugs - now...that is happy stuff. See what I mean?
If you blog, I challenge you to list 10 happy things a day, blog it and then link back here. I'd love to read it as well as share it with others!
If you don't blog, considerlisting your 10 happy things a day for the week in the comments below. It will be wonderful to see the things that make YOU happy!
If you can't list 10 things aday - how about 3? What about 5?
I have the Greatest nieces and nephews in all the land. The youngest nephew, Jonathan, recently did a little thing for me. He told his teacher about Spreading Joy Corporation and how we help people. In his mind, he was just telling her about how his Aunt Marie was making a difference. What he didn't realize was that he was actually doing something huge and giving me an opportunity that I may never have gotten myself.
After meeting with his teacher, the preparations start. I want to introduce Spreading Joy Corporation to them. I want them to know what we do, what we've done and what we want to do! What our hopes, dreams and desires are. I want them to know that we've had goals and fallen short of them, but we weren't feeling guilty about it because we simply did what we could with what we had. More than all of that, I want them to walk away empowered, feeling like they can make a difference. I want them to see and KNOW that there's no joy like Spreading Joy.
I only have 30 minutes to speak to them and know that I have so much more than that to say, but am prepared to make it work. After introducing Spreading Joy to them, I quickly run through our accomplishments (article on that soon to be published) explaining to them that while we didn't reach the individual goals we set, we were not feeling guilty. We simply did what we could, with what we had and used that to make a difference. I fill them in on New Year of Hope (NYOH). Explaining where we were and that we needed $802 to deliver HOPE to Dwayne and his 10 year old daughter Diana. Oh, I can't wait to deliver this.
We spend much of our time talking about noticing and appreciating the little things that truly make life big. I'm a lover of the million little things in life that make my heart smile. While I'm sharing this, I hand out Little Debbie Oatmeal Creme Pies. The first guy to receive this Chris, wasn't sure about what I was doing and offered it back as I was walking away. I smile and told him to keep it, it's what I love doing. My favorite thing to give out is Reese Cups, because they are my absolute favorite! But, Little Debbie makes is affordable to give sweet smiles. While I'm "spreading joy" and passing out some of my favorite things, I want to remind everyone that holding the door for others, smiling at everyone, letting someone ahead in line and a whole slew of other "little" things make a huge difference.
Middle school children do not have a lot of resources financially, but they do have huge hearts, creative minds and the power within themselves to make a huge difference. We talk about a few of the 50 Ways to make a difference with spending a penny. The list was printed out for them. I'm hoping that they will be inspired to start spreading joy from that. I also tell them I want 50 more ways to make a difference for free and ask if they would consider sending in some ideas.
After giving Jason Lott a few of the "little things that make his life big", I call 4 people (TolsDetmer, Thomas Butner, Madeline Tilley & Sabrina Twery) from the group of kids. Give them a "joy pack". This is not a gift for them to keep, I ask them to choose someone to give this to, someone that could use a little joy that day. They are spreading joy heroes. They give freely, happily and everyone is hoping to be chosen. Are the bags huge gifts? NO. Remember, it's the little things.
The 4 heroes come back to me after spreading joy. I thank them for not grumbling, not whining and doing such a great job. They are all smiling, standing there empty handed. I'm hoping that their hearts are soaring because they just did something amazing! Before I let them sit down, I give them a little something, more than what they just gave away - but still, little things, because I want them to know, first hand, little things are amazing! I want them to realize that they (the huge hearted kids) have the ability within themselves to make a huge difference.
So, what really happened because one little 11 year old boy cared? Well, let me tell you!
Spreading Joy was able to:
Enjoy the snow while talking to one amazing teacher over delicious coffee
Give away 300 joy packs of candy with our information attached to it.
Joyfully hand out and throw into the crowd 10 Little Debbie Oatmeal Cream Pies
Give away 6 yummilicious, simply the best treat on the face of the earth Reese Cup - Reese Eggs
Give away 9 packs of lip gloss (with 8 different kinds in each) I think
Give away 4 packs of fingernail polish (with 7 or 8 different kinds each)
Give away 3 $10.00 McDonald's gift cards
Give away 3 boxes of a beautiful necklace set
Give away 9 books (I love giving away books)
Speak to around 200 middle school kids with HUGE amazing Hearts! (and several Amazing teachers too!)
And....imagine with me, for just a moment, if you will. If those 200 individuals tell one other person, JUST 1 - that will be 400 people hearing about Spreading Joy Corporation for the first time. And - if that second set of people tell 1 other person, then we are up to around 600 people hearing for the first time.
So, Jonathan, you amazing Spreading Joy hero - do you see how the "little" thing of telling 1 person, has made a HUGE difference? I hope so. I hope others will too.
What did I get out of all of this? Oh, yes, new people heard about Spreading Joy. Yes, I enjoyed presenting my passion to the school - they were attentive and fun to talk to! But more than that, the hugs, the laughter, the smiles, the bright sparkly eyes - from realizing that "hey!!! I can make a difference, right here - right NOW!" filled my heart with so much JOY, I floated through the rest of the day! I was literally flooded with great joy from the response of the children afterwards! Warm, receptive and their minds were already thinking of ways they could make a difference! My heart was completely overflowing as I was extremely blessed by simply being able to hear their comments as they were heading back to class.
So, when you think that giving a little blue bunny is something small - ohhhh...THINK again!! HUGE!! Huge Spreading Joy Hero there!! I love this guy and someone with a HUGE heart was kind enough to make my day and give him to me!
When Reese Cups are on sale, buy one, get one free....Get them, give one and discover how AMAZING you feel when you are instantly transformed into a Spreading Joy Hero! Chris, the first recipient of the Little Debbie Cake, surprised me with an amazing treat at the end of the presentation! Thank you for the wonderful Reese Cup! It was fantabulous!
There is nothing like being flooded with great joy when you see, first hand, the little things that make life big!
Thank you Lincoln Charter School for having me at your wonderful School! Thank you Ms. Paula Micol for inviting me to present my passion for making a difference. Thank you Jonathan, for being one child who cared and acted on it - and made a Huge Difference!
The question goes out to all who read this:
Have you ever considered for one moment, what telling just one person could do to help spread the word about Spreading Joy? Do you see the amazing difference that just one person doing so has created?
Who will you tell today? Will you be a Spreading Joy Hero and spread the word about Spreading Joy?
Thank you!
Thank you for making a huge difference, right where you are, with what you have, leaving the guilt behind - because you are truly making a difference!
Friday morning in January....the alarm goes off, ugghh…I groan. 4:30 already? Mercy. I hit the clock, drag myself out of bed and start the day. It’s Friday, I should be excited. Few more hours and the weekend will be upon me, right? Wrong! Normally the super silliness you see here is just me. While I am and can be completely serious, I love laughing, smiling, cutting up and just loving each and every moment that I can.
I’m not sure what is going on, but I feel anything but happy. I start getting ready and as I normally do, spend time in prayer while getting ready. Someone is on my heart that day, so I pray, specifically for them. Normally this would lift my spirits, but it doesn’t. I head out the door to work. No music, no nothing, just feeling cranky. I realize this and decide to keep my ickiness to myself.
A few hours pass and I’m diligently working through the day. Trying not to focus on the growing crankiness within my heart. A friend calls. “Morning!”, they say – “how are you today?” Before I even realize what I’m doing, I laugh out loud and confess “I’m pretty cranky today, how are you?” My friend laughs and we talk for a bit. Then the friend realizes, wow, she’s not kidding. I admit, no, unfortunately I’m not kidding. I don’t know why, but I’m pretty cranky and what’s worse, can’t shake it. We talk for a few more moments and say our goodbyes. My co-worker laughs and admits that she didn’t even know I was cranky, that I had hidden it pretty well. I apologized and said I was trying not to be spreading crankiness and I’d keep working on it because no one should have to deal with cranky Marie. I wasn't even really trying to hide it, just didn't want to "share" the crankiness and bring down the "TGIF" mood. You know what I mean?
Finally!!! Lunch time! I knew what needed to be done. I clocked out for lunch, sent out a tweet that said:
I got in my car and headed over to a near by Wal-Mart. Trying to figure out what to get and for whom. I knew that I needed to do something for someone – to get rid of the crankiness. I check ubertwitter to send out a few tweets while I’m walking through Wal-Mart. What I saw made me laugh so hard, out loud and in front of everyone. Gene sent a reply that simply said:
With that belly laugh, I feel the crankiness slowly start lifting. Laughter truly is good medicine! I see the perfect thing; Little Debbie Cakes. I LOVE unwrapping smiles and so will the people I give these delicious treats to. I purchase them and see a few more replies about my crankiness. I respond thank you to Jarrell who said "Keep raising those arms & waving hands & praising God." Then to Catie who said "Don't be cranky!! Here's a hug! *HUG* hope it makes you feel better :]" and trust me...it Did make me feel better. More crankiness, slowly oozing away. Then I respond to Angie and Katie who both sent more HUGS, knowing I ADORE hugs. Lastly I reply to Barbara who said "Feel better lady joy!" and head over to Subway to get a sandwich and Peanutbutter cookies for lunch. I smile and give every Subway worker a Little Debbie Valentine Brownie and wish them a wonderful day. I send out a tweet about what I had just done. I smile. I noticed more crankiness oozing away, “nice feeling” I think to myself. I’m walking through the parking lot, pull 2 cakes out for my team and then proceed to give the others away. "I love spreading joy", I happily think to myself. "Does a heart good!"
I get into my car and check ubertwitter to send out a few more thank you’s and WHO do I see?Why, it’s Little Debbie herself - Saying:
At this point, I’m like a kid on Christmas morning! “OH my gosh! Is this real or is this a bot?” I’m giggling out loud to myself. So I ask and they reply that sure enough, they are the real deal! Wow! As real as rain! Some how, knowing this and the fact that the person I had been praying for much of that morning had said that the day had started out difficult, but was getting better, simply just made my day. Those few simple, yet extremely important things helped to get rid of the crankiness.
Next to giving out Reese Cups, giving out Little Debbie Cakes is one of my favorite things to do. They are delicious and very affordable, as well as always bring a smile! I do love unwrapping a smile!
The moral? Am I always spreading joy? No, just ask my kids or husband or for that matter my little sister, Angie. Can there be an easy fix to it? It’s not always easy, but I’m telling you – from experience, I know that if you’ll FORCE yourself to focus on someone else for awhile, the crankiness will leave you. It has no choice but to run for the hills! There will be no room in your heart for the crankies. The joy you get from giving, even something small, will NOT leave room for the crankiness in your heart.
Don’t believe me? Next time you are cranky, spend approximately $3.00 on a couple boxes of Little Debbie Cakes and just give them out to random people with one of your amazing smiles. Then, after you have given them all away, come over here and describe the joy that has just flooded your heart and pushed out the crankiness.
I dare you! I can't wait to hear from you on what you do to get rid of the CRANKIES!
It's 2010 and many are asking about Megan and how she is doing. Here are the entries from her journey in 2009. Again, my heart is amazed at how many people stepped up, encouaged, prayed and still to this day, ask me - how is Megan. Lets journey back to November 2009. Shall we? Love having you walk and talk with me. It inspires me.
It's November now. Meg's doing well. Her stomach is working again, she is eating and digesting. It (her stomach) had stopped working completely. No liquids, no solids - nothing would digest, everything would come back. As bad as that was, as hard as that was, the worst part was that 2 doctors didn't believe us. 2 doctors said, you are doing this to yourself. Imagine, one Doctor, that has known her for her entire life, telling her that "if you'll simply NOT throw up, your food will digest" or this is in your head...etc. etc. etc. Never had we had a problem with our pedatrician beliving us, until this. Even though we told her doctor that she "held" her food in - YES - HELD in so she would not throw it up, for SEVEN hours on the fourth of July, sadly encough, he still didn't believe us. I could see it in his eyes. I could see it all over his face. He thinks she has been purging all these months. She has not. I am with her each time it happens.
Anyway - back to November. She has been on medicine that cause her stomach to work, but at such a high price. The pain it brings is horrid. I see it all over her. Everytime I force her to take the meds, she has to endure pain so that her stomach will work. I know there are so many parents who are going through so much worse with their children. I simply can't imagine some of the grief many parents go through day in and day out. My heart goes out to you as you hold on to your precious child. As you journey through each day, one day at a time. As your heart is fearful of tomorrow.
I get a letter from a friend. One who is supporting Spreading Joy but feels like he needs to send an extra blessing along with the letter. It says not to think, just go with the blessing. I don't have to think...I know what to do. I want my princess to have peace in her stomach. I want her to smile again and be your normal, typical teenage girl. I want her to have some good times of pure joy.
I don't have Meg with me. It's Saturday night. I gaze at the letter. "All who touch it will receive a blessing. " I want Meg to have it. She needs to have this. She needs to smile, laugh and have a good time. I contact Richard Mayhan, a fellow prayer warrior and friend who God has used to help round up prayer warriors on Meg's behalf many times. He knows that on Sunday afternoon, when we go to the altar and pray with Meg, we are praying for special healing and pure joy for her. I take the letter to church on Sunday. I'm not at my own church because of a death in the family. Many family members are there and I get separated from Steve and Meg. I'm reading in my Bible in Matthew where the faith of the friends heal the sick. I message that verse to Richard and he says that he is there, reading that as well and so is another person. To stay there, pray there - keep my faith right there. That so far 10 people have agreed to pray with us when we go to the altar. He is tweeting and asking who will pray. I continue to pray that I would have enough faith. That I wouldn't wouldn't be the reason Meg misses out on a blessing of healing. There's 17 that have agreed to pray. All I have to do is say when we are going to the altar and people all across the United States will pray at the exact same time. I sit in my pew in awe at the amazing friends I have, at the mighty God I serve. Meg has struggled so much this year. Her heart has hurt as badly as her stomach because we couldn't get the doctors to believe us. I hear back, 26 people are going to pray. The service is almost ending. My heart is racing as I hear 35 people are going to join us in prayer. I give the word, we go to the altar - for a while we - Steve, Meg and myself are the only one's praying. WE don't wait for the Pastor to invite us, no..we go. Both Steve and I pray for our Princess. Meg holds the letter. We ask for healing for her stomach as well as her heart. We want her to be a happy normal teenager again. We get done, head back to our seats. I get the word that including Steve and myself 47 total people prayed at the same time for Megan. Amazing love for a little girl that they have not even met.
Now the faith begins. We leave, go to lunch. I do not give the meds. She hates them. They hurt her so badly. She eats and the food stays. A week passes, two weeks passes. Still, food staying. No meds, no tears, no "but Mom", no I need pain medicine. None of it. I watch and laugh out loud - wow!! She is eating me out of house and home. I'm giggling and thinking goodness....a few months ago I was forcing her to have milkshakes every day. She says if she never has another milshake, it will be too soon. 4 weeks passes. She is doing well. Eating. Gaining weight. While she doesn't like it, I'm loving it. Christmas Even rolls around. The excitement of her brother being home, the festivities, the day itself. It gets to her and she is sick on her stomach. Christmas day, she is sick for several hours. Am I swayed - no.
It's now the END of January and Megan is doing well. (It's actually the beginning of April now, and she is STILL doing well!) No medicine and yet still digesting. The Doctor had told us this was always going to be an issue. That she would always have a problem. And - maybe she will, who knows....but right now, as far as I believe, her stomach is working, on its own - thanks to My Lord.
Oh, the wonderful friend that sent the blessing. He was part of the 47 that were praying for Meg, withOUT knowing that I was using the blessing he sent. I had the honor of telling him sometime later that he was more instrumental than even he knew. That was a great honor and joy.
If you have Gastroparesis, we understand. We believe you. We know how hard you struggle. Our prayers are with you. We will do all we can to help you walk down this path, and to have joy for your journey. WE will walk with you.
I love prayer warriors. I love the faith of my friends. I love how God gives us the desires of our heart. What is it that you need? What are you praying for? We prayed all year long for Megan. Don't give up. Gather your friends and pray - but don't give up. Keep going before the Lord, don't give up. Keep asking, don't give up. Keep gathering with your friends and praying - but what ever you do...don't give up...keep praying.
What do you need?
Thank you for your friendship, love and care for my princess! I'm blessed to have you in my life!
If you're alone, I'll be your shadow. If you want to cry, I'll be your shoulder. If you want a hug, I'll be your pillow. If you need to be happy, I'll be your smile. But anytime you need a friend, I'll just be me. ~Author Unknown
This Blog article and other information about Spreading Joy Corporation - an IRS Approved NON Profit Organization can be found at www.spreading-joy.org See you there!
"We cannot have the attitude to simply ask God's blessings in our life. That is the tendency of the church today. We should desire to actively participate in a relationship with Him."
What is the book about? While the book’s title puts it in the praise and worship section in book stores, the book is more about the total life of the believer. Nehemiah10:39 is the core scripture for the book’s teachings. Nehemiah had gone to Jerusalem to rebuild the walls and also rebuilt the temple, restoring worship to the people. Worship was centered around sacrifice. I use the different groups pictured in Nehemiah to talk about fundamental areas of the believers life. The scripture says they would not forsake the temple of God. We have forsaken the house of God today. We are so busy with our agendas, we have left the true reason for worship. God is looking for something real from our lives, not just our words.
Why Enter to Worship and Exit to Serve? The life of the believer comes from our life in God. We bring to Him a sacrifice of our monies, our gifts, our fruit and lay it at His feet. The premise for most Christians today is what can God do for them instead of how can I worship God with all that is within me. The scriptures teach us that everyone has something to offer. When we worship in the fullness of our lives, God then fills us to be able to affect our world. We then exit to serve God through proclaiming His Word, serving those around us and exalting His name in all the earth. Everything we do in church is to help us fulfill God’s calling on our lives in the world.
Why do you talk about money? The very first thing that was brought into the temple was an offering of grain or corn. This is symbolic of money. I go to Kenya every year and they trade their corn for other items such as meat, oil, etc. God is interested in our money. He speaks of money more than He does either prayer or heaven. I think there has been a lot of negative about money and there has been a lot of error through the years. I hope that what I teach in the book is balanced. Many pastors have said this teaching has helped their churches understand the truth about tithes, first fruits and seed offerings.
What do you think is the most important chapter of the book? In over 35 years of full time ministry, I have never heard anyone else teach about porters. In Nehemiah 10:39 it lists porters between priest and singers. I thought that was very interesting and researched porters. It is basically a janitor. So between priests and porters are janitors. Servants that do the basics. People who do ordinary things to keep ministries going. God wants servants. That is a concept that is lost in the big time world of church ministries today. Jesus came to serve. I believe that we can make a difference in our community, our neighborhoods, and our world if we are willing to lay our lives down to serve God.
What do you hope to accomplish with your book? I hope that ordinary believers will recognize they have something to offer. We can bring our monies and touch the nations. We can bring our gifts and see the power of God touch people and their needs. We can offer our fruit and not wait for the pastors or elders, but be instruments to bring life to those around us who are seeking a relevant relationship with Jesus. The five fold ministries of Apostle, Prophet, Evangelist, Pastor and Teacher were never supposed to do everything in the church. The church is supposed to be equipped for ministry. Everyone should be able to proclaim the message and everyone should have praise for the God we serve. That should not happen just on Sunday mornings between 10 a.m. and 12 noon. We should be able to give God praise in our homes and throughout the week. I truly believe this can be the church’s finest hour.
Where are these resources available to purchase? You can obtain this book and many other resources on my web site at http://www.ronaldgrayministries.org/.
Are there other available resources connected with this book? Yes, I taught my book at a conference and had it professionally recorded on video and audio. These sessions are great for small groups and Bible studies. There is a Study Guide to help the leader go through the sessions. The book and the video provide different insights that will help people to grow into maturity.
Please leave a comment below to be entered into a drawing for a free copy of this book!
Many Thanks to Ronald Gray for the copy of his book.
Letters To Godis a major motion picture that will be in theaters on April 9th 2010.
The movie Letters To God is based on a true story about Tyler (an 8 year old boy) and his fight with cancer. The letters are his way of praying and talking to the Lord about things that are important to him.
"These letters didn't only help Tyler deal with facing cancer but also worked to change the faith of those closest to him."
I had the privilege to preview the soundtrack for this movie. I've been listening, this week, to the 2 cds with over 20 songs. Talented artists, such as Addison Road, Matthew West, Jeremy Camp, Santus Real and many others have contributed amazing songs to this motion picture.
The instrumental music is awesome! Included are several original scores by composer Colin O'Malley.
This 2 disc set is sure to encourage, inspire and remind you of hope as you listen to the music.
Sampling of the music:
Dear Mr. God - by Warren Brothers This link has some details about the making of the movie, as well as pieces of the song Dear Mr. God. Check it out!
Thank you for spreading the word about this event, for helping where you can and for your efforts in Spreading Joy.
{{HUGS}}
Marie
3/27/10 Wow! Under $500.00 to go! $487 to be Exact. I'm excited. It's been a long time and I can't wait. I'm ready to turn up the music, protect the windows, hide the pugs and sing all the way to Roxboro NC! Who will help me get there? Will it be you? YOU will be amazed at what your gift will grow into. You think $10.00 is not going to make a difference - but trust me...it will. Not only will it make a difference, but the hope that it will restore is going to be so wonderful.
I hope you'll consider facebooking this site, emailing and asking others to join in and do what they can, where they are with what they have.
Thank you to the wonderful Tweeple who are making this event possible! Without your desire to make a difference, we could not help restore hope. My heart thanks you!
<- - - Click here to see the current NYOH Heroes! YOU are making a HUGE difference! *hats off* to you!
3/16/10 We are down to $592 to be able to deliverhope! If 6 wonderful individuals would find it in their heart to give $100.00 each, we could be delivering hope soon.
I've tried to think of something all day that would tug at your hearts string, that would get your mind thinking..."wow..I want to be part of something this wonderful" - but the words simply will not come. Writing - not something I'm very gifted at.
I'll leave you with this. You will be surprised at the hope YOU are delivering. You will not believe the joy that will flood your very being because you cared enough to help. All of those that gave and will give towards this last $592.00 will sit back, smile and think how wonderful it is to have been involved with this project.
I'm praying, will you join me?
2/27/10 Literally, around 2 months ago New Year of Hope (NYHO) was started because @blogomomma cared enough to contact me, present a need to me and ask if we could make a difference for a "divorced father of one, hearing impaired, who was facing eviction right at the new year." Today, I'm happy to say that we are so close and if a few Spreading JOY heroes would step up, we could be delivering hope within the next week or so. Wouldn't that be a wonderful miracle?
Here's the deal.....
We are down to needing only $687.00 to complete this challenge. 28 Spreading Joy Heroes could finish this with a donation of $25.00 each. 7 Heroes could finish this with a donation of $100.00 each.
Thank you to those who have contributed, tweeted, prayed, emailed and asked for donations seems so small compared to othe complete joy that this miracle will bring. Remember, each act of joy has the potential to grow to limitless possibilities with enormous rewards! I thank you for the part you have had in this. But let's finish this. Shall we? Would you partner with me and allow me to deliver hope to Roxboro NC?
Your heart will be flooded with unspeakable joy simply because you cared. *giggling* Trust me, there are no words to explain how you are going to feel at the end of this project.
My heart is astounded at the out pouring of love from so many wonderful, kindhearted and compassionate people. The wonderful friends that social media has brought my way are priceless in my eyes. My world is a better, brighter happier place, simply because you are just keystrokes away. Thank you for being an ahhhMAZIN part of my world!
Impossible situations can become possible miracles.--Robert H. Schuller
2/14/10 Day of LOVE - where we show those around us just how special they are. If we don't have a lot of funds, we get creative and send hand written note cards, covered with hearts, swirls and wonderful expressions of love. Others give boxes of chocolates with an adorable stuffed monkey, along with a promised dinner and trip to the bookstore. Others give diamond pendants, heart shaped rings or sparkly earrings. Then, there is the best gift, that I hope everyone receives today - the showers of hugs. Perfect for everyone, one size fits all and no one is the wrong one to receive it.
This New Year of Hope (NYOH) is full of endless possibilities. Giving anything on any day of the year, floods my heart with amazing joy. Giving today...on VALENTINE'S Day, the day to show love, the day to express care, the day to say I appreciate you.... Giving today is special. Is there someone in YOUR life, you'd like to honor by making a gift towards this miracle of hope? Is there someone special that you are missing this year and you'd like to make a donation in honor of their memory? You can do that here and your gift will not only honor the recipients, but will also help deliver hope. Remember, just like HUGS that I adore, no gift is too small. Never ever think that your gift can not help, because it does. Every act of joy matters and will make a difference. You never know just how far one simple act of giving will travel.
Left to raise to date: $802.00 Amazing!! Almost time to deliver HOPE!
I do hope you'll join me! And for all those who have already joined us, YOU are going to be so thankful that you did!!
I love Spreading Joy! I truly do. It's the little things that truly make life big!!
{{{HUGS}}}
1/28/10 I was expressing my sadness to a wonderful friend that this hope is taking so long to complete. I even apologized to him. He responded - Your words are an extension of your heart. Speak from your heart. Or something of that nature. He made me smile. It was late at night. I went to sleep praying that my heart would speak to me and tell me what to say.
We are so close to being able to deliver HOPE for this wonderful family! So close - yet so far away! The home stretch is always the hardest and longest. The last mile, seems to take forever and that is what it feels like in my heart! My heart SCREAMS to take a trip to Roxboro NC and deliver this hope! My heart wishes that everyone that read this page would want to be a part of this MIRACLE and give a little something - and NOT feel guilty about what it is that they are giving! If you can give $2.00 that is super fantabulous!! If you can give $25.00 - amazing still! If you can give $300.00 - awesome!! And if you say, Marie, I'm out of work, I literally have NO extra to give - but I can Tweet this 2 times a day every day till you finish - or I can email my friends and family and ask them to be a part of the wonderful MIRACLE OF HOPE- - then PLEASE, do as that is such a fantabulous thing as well!! WE can all be a part of this miracle! Trust me, when you see the end results of what is going on here, you are going to sit back and SMILE, nod your head and say - wow.... I was part of a wonderful thing!
No matter what you do for New Year of Hope, it's all joy!
We need $1529.00 to be able to deliver HOPE that never ends - even when the sky is falling. I know what my heart is screaming at me to do. What about you? What is your heart screaming at you to do? Do you have the courage to listen? I hope you do - as I promise you, you'll be flooded with joy for how you gave hope!
Sometimes the tough phone calls pay off in a big way! This is certainly the case for #NYOH! Knowing that eviction was approaching Dwayne and his 9 year old daughter, I knew I had to do something. While it would have been simply amazing to raise $3400.00 in a matter of a few days, I was thinking realistically. I dialed the number, as I had spoken to the Landlord prior to starting this campaign with @blogomomma and proceeded to ask about Dwayne being able to stay.
Not only did the Landlord agree to allow Dwayne and his daughter to keep their apartment, he also graciously agreed to a reduction in rent! Spreading Joy Corporation was also able to send a “Good Faith” payment of $1000.00 thanks to a wonderful donor who has a desire to make a difference by doing what they can.
We understand not everyone can give that size of a gift, but we can all give something! I hope you’ll step up and give something, without guilt or worry that it isn’t enough or it won’t make a difference, because it will! Every act of joy has a lasting effect!
It’s not the size of the gift that matters; it’s the size of the heart! Marie Wikle
It is a wonderful life. For many this doesn’t require much. These things usually include a place to live, few changes of clothes, food, utilities – the basic necessities, right?
For one gentleman, Dwayne Reaves and his nine year old daughter, Diana, these basics are starting to disappear.
I’m teaming up with @blogomomma to help keep this family together, in their current apartment!
She is starting #NYOH (New Year of Hope) and Spreading Joy Corporation will be accepting donations to help bring this New Year miracle to pass.
She will also be giving away a $100.00 gift card to the person to reach the most people with the promo message*
#NYOH will promote donations for Dwayne Reaves in any amount. In reality 34 #twitterangels could bring this Miracle to pass quickly.
Through the power of networking it would take:
34 tweeters to donate $100 each
68 tweeters to donate $50 each
136 tweeters to donate $25 each
340 tweeters to donate $10 each
Or 3400 tweeters to donate $1 each.
A host of #twitterangels can help restore hope. Hope that never ends – even when the sky is falling.
Will you have the faith to team up with us for this #NYOH?
To donate, please click here to be a part of this New Year Miracle #NYOH!
I'm sitting on the balcony loving the gray skies, the majestic ocean and how the fog is lingering right down on my level. The waves come crashing in over and over the same every time, yet different with each crash. The ocean is so strong, powerful and demanding yet gentle, calming and assuring.
Few people are out taking advantage of this amazing sight. It's cold and the air stings my nose. The cold air makes me shiver all the way down go my bones...but I don't mind. I am wrapped in a blanket with sweater, jacket and toe socks and the love of the view of the ocean to keep me warm. Oh, and my coffee - it warms me from the inside out. It's New Years Eve and I think of all that the new year has to offer.
I remember back to last year, one year ago today. I was probably at the same spot....on the balcony, covered with a blankt, with coffee in hand and toe socks to keep me warm. Thinking about 2009 and all the glorious things it would hold. I remember thinking this new year, 2009 would be the best year ever! I am going to start planning wonderful things early and my family will have a wonderful year! We will take a cruise for Todds graduation present. Goodness, is he really graduating this year? Then we will plan a long weekend, a 5 day vacation just before Todd heads off to college. We will travel up the East coast, no reservations, no commitments just seeing the different beaches, seeing the lighthouses, visiting where ever when ever! I love being spontaneous like that. We would travel all the way to New York from NC and end with seeing Lady Liberty, by far my most favorite American icon! Then I dreamt of our Christmas 2009. I smile thinking "yes! this will be the best Christmas ever!!" I will start now and save to get Steve the huge flat screen HD TV he wants, and I'll get Meg her very own Lap top and I'll get Todd something super cool as well. "That's what I'll do" I grin to myself!!
Yes - a year ago the sky was the limit, as I waited for the new year to roll in. Here I am again, at the eve of another new year. I giggle to myself because I'm thinking the same things...again! Even though 2009 was probably the toughest year financially, medically, mentally, physically and spiritually, it was also the best year!! If it could have gone wrong this past year - it did. Click on the tag Megan and see how much pain and torment she went through. Oh the horror my only princess endured. Look at the blog post where I loudly proclaim that circumstances will not steal my joy of giving because we knew the finances were horrible due to husbands job almost closing the door.
We are still behind on Todds tuition for 2009 but because of the heart of the college and the Grace of God he can return to college n a few days. Todd is there by faith, as the finances are not available and banks do not loan tuition for Bible college. Yes, 2009 was literally one trial after another. I would pray for a miracle, see the prayer answered and boom, another was needed. I remember feeling and saying I "only" need 37 1/2 miracles! I even cried at the thought of not getting my mom the Christmas gift I always get her! I always treat her to several days at the beach, as she loves it as much as I do. (plus I go with her!) My heart broke as I told her that I simply could not afford it because I have the greatest mommie ever and I want to give her the best gift ever! Yet....I sit here, on the balcony gazing at the ocean, full of amazing joy and great hope for a wonderful 2010!
Gazing at what many would be saddened by. Dark clouds hoovering over the ocean. The fog is growing thicker by the hour. The rain is steadily falling. The wind is bone chilling cold and yes, my teeth and toes are freezing, but I love it!!
Will the finances get better this year? Don't know. Will Megan endure other physical isses? Don't know. Will Todd find a job, since he just found out he was a seasonal employee, when he returns to college so that he can help us pay his tuition? Don't know. Will Steves job be safe and secure or will he lose it? Don't know. Will I be able to give my family the Christmas gifts that I think are great and amazing on Christmas 2010? Don't know.
So, by now you are wondering, what in the world DO you know!?! Well, I am glad you asked! I know that I have Hope that never ends, even when the sky is falling! I have the best family in the world. I have been connected to some of the greatest people in the world through social media! I will have the pleasure of laughing out loud till my stomach hurts and I can't breathe. I will have the gift of thousands of hugs from people I know and love as well as hugs from strangers I have just met. I will have the opportunity to give and make a difference, because every act of joy will last somewhere forever! Every one, no matter how small they may seem at the moment! I will be in awe at answered prayers, and scratch my head in amazement at how things seem to come together. I know that new friendships will be formed and old friendships will grow stronger. I know that tears will be shed as I walk down the journey of separation with friends that have lost very close loved ones and my heart aches for them. I know that if I never see the ocean again that the memories I have of me and my mom's many visits will always warm my heart! I know that I am loved, adored even by an almighty God that gave his Son for me. I know that my family and friends love me - all of me! The super silly side, the sing loud (horribly loud) with the music side, the spreading joy - gotta help this person right now side. The we just got to pray about it, trust the Lord and let Him carry us through all of this side of me. I may not know a lot, but I do know there's NO joy like spreading joy and I intend on spreading joy every where I possibly can!
I hope you look at 2010 with hope, with love and plan on enjoying laughter, hugs and smiling a million smiles. I hope you'll let go of the 2009 things that disappointed you, the things that made you cry and even wonder if any of it is worth it or not and boldly move towards this new opportunity we will soon be given. I hope you'll give what you can, where you are, so that you too will realize that truly, there is no joy like spreading joy - regardless of the gift!
So, tell me....what do YOU know about 2010? Hmmmm?
(Don't forget, the web site and Blog are now ONE page. Go to www.spreading-joy.org for both!) {{HUGS}}
I love little thing. I truly do. Stick around long enough and you’ll probably tire of hearing me say such, but it’s the truth. I have no idea who said it, but I saw this quote and instantly fell in love with it.
It’s the little things that make life BIG!
I’ve not been feeling well for a few days, so I’ve been forced to enjoy some of the more peaceful little things in life. I’m feeling better and but wanted to reflect on some of these little things that I’ve enjoyed these past few days.
Pandora – Love this internet radio. Anything I want. My favorite is the “Oldies but Goodies” but so many amazing songs, right at my fingertips. I love music! Praise and Worship, Sappy Love Songs, the Pop Singers from 80, 90 ‘s – such a wide variety of music makes me smile. Ohh... How about the One Hit wonders? We all have our favorite one of those, right?
Sleep – I normally do not take naps because they leave me feeling worse than when I went to sleep. Not true these past few days. Here is how it looked for me. Do a few things, sleep a few hours. Get up, repeat. Been there? Oh, I’m sure you have been. I know many people who are power nappers and swear by them. Please, share how you fall asleep quickly enough to sleep and awaken feeling rested after only 20 minutes!
Iced Tea – Refreshing, simple – Unsweetened, nothing added to it, iced tea. Normally coffee is my beverage of choice, but these past few days tea has been my constant companion. The colder, the better. When the heat is on, you should try it.
Audio Books – Are these not the best? Other than the fact that I would love to be the voice of an audio book one day when I grow up, I love listening to them. I love that I can find free ones as well as cheap ones. I down load a free audio book each month at Christian Audio. You check out like normal and put in the code and its free! Where do you find free audio books? What is your favorite? Have you downloaded older books?
Hand held games – It’s true. I have my very own Game Boy SP, royal blue. I received it for an anniversary present several years ago! I normally carry it in my purse, but will have to charge it before returning it. I currently hold the 1st and 3rd place highest score in Kirby’s Pinball. The kids lost many of my games over the years, so I’m always on the look out for some of the older game boy games. Love them.
Sleeping on the Couch – I don’t know if it’s the fact that there is a “back” to the couch or what it is, but I love sleeping on the couch. Maybe I could take naps on the couch and enjoy this simple pleasure a little more often?
Extra Warm Blankets - I Had an issue with getting and staying warm, so piled on the blankets. I love snuggly, warm, extra soft blankets. I’d pull them up close to my chin and just drift off.
Soup – The winter time is wonderful for soup and sandwich meals, at least around my house! Once I could finally keep something down, extra hot egg drop soup was the meal of the day. The warmth from the inside out is amazing. Soup, simple, easy and delicious!
Boy, looking back at this list, I need to make sure I add some peaceful little things to my day more often. Not only are they peaceful, but fun, comforting and they bring great joy to me! It truly is the little things that make life big! These are just a few of the peaceful little things I enjoy.
What are the little things that are big in your life?
What peaceful little things DO you add to your day?
What peaceful little things do you NEED to add to your day?
http://www.spreadingjoycorp.com/ and this blogger site have been combined to one place. I think you’ll love the new layout! The blog articles are listed on the left side, the main web pages, events, what we are up to etc are across the top of the header.
I’m always looking for new ideas, new ways of spreading joy and would welcome any suggestions that will make the new site better and more fun to meander in!
IF YOU FOLLOW THIS BLOGGER BLOG, PLEASE GO OVER TO NEW SITE (right now)AND FOLLOW THERE!!
You will love it there! You can subscribe by email. Click on the subscribe button on the left column – there is 2 tabs, choose the far right one. I know…lots of trouble, but hey…Spreading Joy's worth it…don’t you think? (grinning..very cute adorable grin)
I LOVE MY FOLLOWERS AND WANT TO KEEP YOU! But not sure if I can keep posting at both places or not!!
Thank you for your support, for your encouragement and for walking on this journey as we look for ways of making a difference right where we are, using what we have!
Christmas time is the best time of the entire year for me. I love the giving. Everyone seems to be more giving and in doing so, without even realizing it, many are flooded with great joy for their very kind, simple acts of joy.
Knowing this about me, it should come as no surprise to you that on Christmas Eve, I had a hard time making myself go to bed. I sat in the living room, watching my children sleep. A current family tradition, started by Todd when he was young, sleeping on the couch, Christmas Eve, with the tree lit and the Christmas music playing. After spending 4 months of not actually having my family completely together, stealing this moment was quite a gift for me. I force myself to sleep, knowing that the morning will soon greet me and we can spend time together. I kiss them many, many times and excitedly go to sleep, anticipating Christmas morning!
I wake, having slept only a few hours. Merry Christmas I shout to myself! Everyone still sleeping, I sneak through the house so that I can enjoy my gift again. In the dark – I sit, quietly, with only the lights from the tree glowing, watching my children sleep, gazing at their still bodies admiring the fact that they are both completely at peace, resting comfortably. I love the Christmas music playing softly in the background and even giggle when a loud snore comes from the bedroom, knowing that Steve is sleeping soundly. This scene has played itself out for nearly 18 years now and my heart knows that I’m limited as to how many more I’ll get. I’ve already taken their picture while they slept, much to my surprise, neither move. The camera usually wakes Meg. She is so tall, yet sleeps on the love seat on Christmas Eve, still. Todd sleeps on the couch, my baby yet a wonderful young man. My, how time does fly.
My heart wants every happiness, every bit of joy, every ounce of comfort for my family this Christmas. My heart wants to give them never ending hugs that are topped with a million smiles, so that they will always know they are not only loved, but adored. They, my family, are my very best gifts. They never have to purchase one single thing for me as I have far more then I could ever want, their hearts, the memories that I cherish and most of all their LOVE. Then, I imagine…God, my heavenly Father, sitting in heaven – looking down at me, while sleeping, even for just a few hours, wondering if I know that HE adores me, that HE loves me and that HE wants to give ME a million hugs wrapped with grace, comfort and mercy for the journey. He wants to give me life so that I might have it more abundantly. I imagine Him, wondering if I realize that HIS heart wants me to always know that I am loved and adored, by HIM.
I’m so thankful for my very best gifts. I’m so thankful that I am fearfully and wonderfully made. I’m so thankful to be used, to have an opportunity of Spreading JOY every day.
Oh, the excitement is killing me. I have loved this wonderful scene for much too long now. I even let them sleep 4 minutes longer today! Its time to read the Christmas story from Luke 2, its time for giving, laughing and expressing love! It’s time for great joy! I happily bounce through the house, proclaiming that it is Christmas, waking the entire family with hugs, kisses and singing. “Merry Christmas Yall!” I proclaim loudly, joyfully and with great excitement!
Thank you for reflecting on my best gifts of Christmas with me. As you think back about your day, what traditions do you hold dear? What is near to your heart? What is your favorite memory of Christmas? Do you read the Christmas story with your family? What are your greatest treasures?
I hope that you treasure these things everyday of the year, not just Christmas. Trust me, if you do, you’ll be splashed with great joy every step of the way. Merry Christmas!
"Just when you feel you have nothing to give…give the love that fills your heart!" ~ Marie Wikle @spreadingJOY
The light from a full moon (or any moon for that matter) simply amazes me. Especially if it is a full moon over the vast ocean! If you know me, you know that I see things different than most people. I love cloudy days. From the gigantic black clouds to the gray clouds that just stretch across the sky. That does not bother me. I love the rain, where as most prefer the sun shine. Just the other day, I was heading to my car and it was pouring. My first thought was to run to the car, but then it hit me! Why? So, I walked at a normal pace, loving every step and enjoying the rain that was just flowing from the sky! Amazing! I’ve reminded you of all of this to tell you that the moon light is an amazing source of beauty for me. I can sit and gaze at the moon for hours. It captures me in a way that nothing else does.
The brightness of the moon lights up the blackest sky. The fullness of the moon illuminates everything with such softness. That soft, calming effect leaves me gazing with awe each time there’s a full moon. The light of the moon transforms the dull darkness into brilliance – even in the fog!
The moon is majestic, handsome and simply glorious when it is full. The brightness dances across the dark sky – perfect, whole and stunning. This always reminds me that there is always light in the darkness and that shadows are not always a bad thing. I’m also reminded that even with clouds hanging around, the light from the moon is amazing to behold.
Then I wonder. Am I that kind of light? Amazing to behold, when the clouds are looming overhead? Do I continue to rise - slowly and steadily above the clouds so that I can illuminate everything around me? Or, when my clouds are hanging low, is the light suppressed, does gloom abound?
The skies will be pitch dark, the clouds will stretch across the sky but the moon will still give off its brilliant light! May I always remember to shine like the moon in the dark, to give beautiful moonlit hugs, to always illuminate those around me.
Moonlit Beauty….may you always shine brightly, even in the dark!
As the Christmas Season is upon us and the hustle & bustle of everyday life picks up - let me remind you not to give into those thieves that will try and steal your joy this Christmas Season.
Christmas is the one time we all come together with a heart for giving to others. It is during this time of year that our minds and hearts are truly focused on others, but sometimes our emotions will get the best of us and in an instant, our tempers are flaring, our hearts are sad and our joy is gone! Don't let thieves come in and steal your joy.
Let me introduce you to some thieves to keep an eye out for. They are sneaky, so watch for them closely!
Thief #1 Extremely Busy - OH, we are so busy and then you throw the holidays into the everyday routine. Being busy, not slowing down to enjoy the music, lights, smell, taste of the season can rob you of your joy. Take some time to dwell on the blessings that surround you. Sit at the mall and just watch the laughter of children that go by. Listen to the never ending supply of Christmas music that is playing. Gaze at the millions of twinkling lights that brighten our days and light up our nights! Don't let the busyness of the Christmas season rob you of the true joy of Christmas.
Thief #2 Things - Little or big, "things" can steal your joy. Little thing that needle at you. Poking you in the stomach, screaming "pick me, pay attention to me." So many little details will be magnified to such a degree that our joy will be stolen and we will not even realize it. Big things that press for your time. Now, there’s a thief! Our days are already filled with high priority items that we feel like we can’t possibly squeeze one more thing in – but we must. Set priorities, go with it and what you don't get done today will wait for you till tomorrow. Guard against this thief closely.
Thief #3 Household Chores - As you plan your Thanksgiving and Christmas gatherings, don’t worry about perfection. People are happy to receive an invite, to spend some time with you, talking, laughing, remembering and simply having an amazing time with you. Spend time getting things in order, but if a plate breaks, or the skin on the turkey is burned, or the smashed potatoes are a little lumpy don’t sweat it. Smile and enjoy the spirit of the gathering! Enjoy the hugs that you’ll receive and soak up the laughter and joy that is radiating through out the room.
Thief #4 People - One of the greatest things about Christmas is being surrounded by the people you love. You still have work and other commitments that are demanding your time and attention, but don’t let the needs of others sneak in and rob you of the true joy of Christmas. Don’t let the hustle and bustle of shopping on the day after Thanksgiving steal your joy. Let’s face it, shopping for others should be a time of great giving but in reality many people will send Black Friday grumbling, complaining about long lines and hating the experience. As you stand in the long lines on Black Friday, start looking for ways of spreading joy. Smile at the cashier, speak to those in line around you, say thank you and have a fantabulous day to as many people as you can. You’ll have an amazing opportunity to make a difference this Christmas Season, as long as you guard against this sneaky thief!
Guard your Joy these next few weeks. Don’t let the joy thieves come in and rob you of the true happiness that spreading joy, giving and doing for others can bring you.
So, tell me – how are you spreading joy this Thanksgiving and Christmas season
"Joy is not in things; it is in us."~ Richard Wagner
Luke 2:10 - And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.
This year feels like it has been one storm after another in my life. God answers one prayer, I give Him the thanks and it seems while I’m praising Him for the victory, another storm is brewing on the horizon. I always try to be grateful for the many blessings in my life and find that I sometimes have trouble expressing my gratitude. My writing skills are not as sharp many of the authors you’ll read here on Worldprayr, but I pray you’ll enjoy a peek inside my heart of gratitude.
I’m so thankful for the glorious gift of a Savior! I know beyond a shadow of a doubt that if I had been the only person to ever have sinned that the Lord would have still given me Jesus. He would have still made such a huge sacrifice, just for me.
I’m so thankful for so many things – for a Christian family, for a husband that loves me, children that are Christians because they want to be, not because I am. For extended family that I can go to for anything at anytime and for the best sister in the whole wide world.
I’m thankful for the freedoms that living in the USA gives me, for the kindness of strangers, for the blessings of technology – that bring people that are a world apart right to my finger tips and I can *hug* them. I’m thankful for those that pray for me and then take the time to tell me they pray – as I know our Father honors those petitions.
I’m thankful for the million little things in this life that make life big! For the cloud shapes in the sky, for the colors that dance across the sky when the sun is rising and setting. For the moon that is always there, lighting our way at night and the sunlight that warms me and brightens my day. I’m thankful for the laughter of little children that are swinging on swings, sliding down slides and playing in the rain. For the rainbows that appear after the rain, reminding me that God always keeps His promises. I’m thankful for the ocean and how soothing, calming and gentle the waves feel as they lap against my toes when I’m standing next to it. I’m also reminded of its mighty power that can destroy cities – even those several hundred miles away.
The little things that are huge to me – Reese Cups, anything with monkeys on them, great books, greeting cards, snow, play dough, coloring in a coloring book, having the high score on Kirby’s Pinball on my gameboy! More little things include my favorite coffee cup, Christmas music in October, looking at my children’s baby pictures and game night. Good smelling cologne, coffee anytime of the day, Krispy Kreme Hot Doughnuts. I’m thankful for warm blankets, peach roses, toe socks, indoor plumbing, great movies such as the Wizard of Oz and Winnie the Pooh. I’m thankful for silly signs, great hair cuts, good pair of sandals, warm smiles and family gatherings. I’m thankful for teddy bear hugs, green lights, fire flies, big laughs, friends that call for no reason, surprise emails that say I care and joy of the Lord that gives me strength.
I’m thankful for the opportunity to give to others, to truly make a difference in this life that I live. I’m thankful that God gave me a desire to give big and I pray that desire will never leave me. I’m thankful for the chance to remind others that there’s no joy like spreading joy and when we give, we get so much more in return. I’m thankful for others that try and make a difference every day. I’m thankful for those that take the time so say I care about you….because, a little goes such a long way!
I’m thankful to be a tiny part of the Worldprayr team. Such wonderful men and women taking the time to pray for people they don’t know. Doing all that they can do to make a difference.
There is no amount of paper that could hold all that I’m thankful for! I hope that you'll stop and think about all the million little blessings that come your way every day. What are you thankful for?
Don’t forget the little things for they truly do make life big!
When I first started using twitter, I was so excited to see @worldprayr come across my twitter stream! Anyone that follows them can send a DM to them and a prayer request will be published to all of the people that follow them and then the prayers begin. I am excited about being a part of their team and volunteer some time each week to pray for needs that come across the twitter stream. They send out Thursday Reflections to those that volunteer and recently I was blessed in particular by one of the quotes.
The strong are not always vigorous, The wise are not always ready, The brave are not always courageous, And the joyous are not always happy. ~Charles Haddon Spurgeon
Wouldn’t be nice to always be strong and vigorous, wise and ready, brave and courageous as well as joyous and happy. But the fact of the matter is that we can’t always be this way. Being brave with out being courageous isn’t what gets us down, it is the guilt that goes along with it. Being joyous and noticing the joys that surround us without being happy feels like it should be wrong on some level and then the guilt begins.
When the storms start raging around us and we take our eyes off of our blessings and the unhappiness sets in, that is when the guilt creeps in too. The raging winds of mounting bills, job loss, unexpected emergencies, chronic or even sudden illness are enough to make the happiest person feel sadness and turn their focus to the tornado force winds that are raging around them. Then - as if anything else is needed, the guilt quitely slips in covered by all of the problems.
We have to let go of that guilt! We are all going to have times of sadness when our heart is heavy and we need a friend we can call. We shouldn’t feel guilty about making that call. We will find that our friends will love us even more if we trust them to lift us up during the raging winds. We all have times where we are afraid of the next step, but the courage kicks in when we pick our foot up and begin the journey. Don’t let the guilt of not always being what you think everyone expects you to be get you down and keep you from soaring to heights unknown.
Be comfortable with yourself, right where you are, right now. Me? I’m the happy go lucky kind of gal that loves the small, cute fun things in life. Have you seen the games that are key chained size? Oh, I adore that kind of stuff and it excites me. I mean really excites me - like a kid in the "oh my goodness - LOOK at this!!!" kind of way. I’m usually very "singy",talkative and just love the moment. But there are times that I’m not my normal singy, silly self and am actually kind of "blah". I do try my best not to let those times in my days spill over and affect someone else. I always want to lift up and encourage, but occasionally I need to be lifted and encouraged AND I need to not feel guilty about it. But – that is the hard part. NOT feeling guilty. Think about it - I am spreading joy, right? I am all about making a difference, doing for others and making others smile. I love reminding others to look for the joy that is there, no matter the storms that are around you. So, with spreading all kinds of joy - you wonder how can I be sad?
It happens. Trust me. I can name a handful of people that can pick up on it. I do love encouraging others, so I really try and not let it spill over into my day. There are times that these people don't have to "pick up" on it. I come right out and say - HELP!!
Letting go of the guilt isn't easy as it clings to you. You'll have to fight to get rid of it. Don't be afraid to open your heart when it is hurting. You never know who has been there, done that and can offer up words of encouragement simply because they remember how you feel. Sharing your sad/bad/unhappy times also allows someone to be a blessing to you. It is such a wonderful feeling when someone is dealing with something horrible and we help them.
I’m always encouraged when I start praying for someone else or DOING for someone else. I love sending my mom flowers and need to do so real soon just because I love her so very much. I remember shortly after my Dad died, I was struggling so horribly. I had spent a week of wanting to (and actually did) just sleep through the grief and ignore the entire world because I felt that I couldn’t get past this consuming emotion. I sent her flowers for the soul purpose of lifting my own spirits. Greedy of me – don’t you think? But it’s the truth. I didn’t feel guilty about doing it and unless she reads this, she won’t even know that was why she got them. I did have to work past the guilt of "grieving" in such a horrible way. (I should have called my very bestest friends for help that week. I made things worse by sleeping and robbed them of a chance to be a blessing to me)
Don’t let guilt keep you from making a difference. Don’t let guilt of needing a little encouragement steal your joy! That is what our friends and family are for, to help us through the rough patches. You can still have joy for the journey – even when you are not feeling the greatest, experiencing the best or being your normal, silly, giddy and crazy self. Focus on your favorite things. All of them, regardless of how small or insignificant you think they may be. Another thing to help get past the blues, do something for someone else. Even if just an email saying "I appreciate you!"
What guilt do you need to let go of? What weight do you need to set aside and move past? Never feel guilty for being honest when someone says "how are you today?" If you need prayer, ask for it. Don’t feel guilty for doing so. I take great pleasure in praying for others. When you ask for prayer, you are, in a sense – bringing joy to others for allowing them the honor of praying for you. Do you need a hug, a smile? What is it that you need to help get you through this "down" time. Don't feel guilty for asking!
Remember – I will always love and appreciate you for who you are deep down. If I ask how you are and you are feeling kind of icky and tell me the truth, I will still love and appreciate you just for who you are. I will never, ever hold the weepy, blah feeling moments against you and will always be willing to help you smile. I will probably search for a song, verse, quote - something to help lift your spirits. Something just for you. I’m not good with telling jokes. Actually stink at it – but am always good for a hug. Hugs are such a wonderful thing – even virtual ones.
I'm so thankful that when I need prayer that there are so many people that will pray on my behalf. I'm so thankful that when I need a hug - I know all I have to do is ask!! I'm so thankful that when I need a smile, someone is usually there with a pocket full of wonderful smiles and are willing to share them! I'm thankful I can ask for help without feeling guilty.
Also, if you twitter, believe in the power of prayer and you have a few hours to volunteer to make a difference – email the guys at @Worldprayr. It is an amazing prayer ministry. You’ll be so glad you did!
No matter how difficult life can be the most important thing is to live it with hope.--Anonymous
JOYn us as we encourage others through various acts of JOY! You Matter! YOU Make a difference! Thank YOU! 100% of your gifts go towards helping & encouraging others as all of our administrative costs are being funded by our founder.
I have a desire to make a difference. A HUGE Difference. Right now, financially, that is not possible so I'm concentrating on what I have and I'm giving that. I have time, I have a voice and I have a gift of gab. Well, maybe not a "gift" but I do enjoy talking. I'm just here to help people realize they can make a difference without breaking the bank! The coolest thing - when you give anything, YOU get so much more back than even the receipant gets. You should try it! Take the 30 day challenge and give 1 thing a day for 30 days and you'll see how wonderful you feel everyday!
Posts
