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Showing posts with the label #Grateful

Breathe In, Breathe Out

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We are, without question, living in incredibly disturbing and fearful times. You can’t turn on the TV or log into Facebook or Twitter without asking yourself, what kind of world are we living in? This is why it’s more important than ever for us to breathe in, breathe out and focus on what’s important and how to be a rainbow in someone else’s cloud.  Whenever I’m feeling stressed or overwhelmed by life and the world events around me, I seek out motivational affirmations and positive reinforcements to lift my spirits. It’s so easy to get mired down in all the negative energy, however, pressing the pause button allows me to slow myself down and remind myself the way things turn out are in direct proportion to my attitude. As a 3 year survivor of both colon and breast cancer, I stand as living testimony to the power and the miraculous effects of having the right perspective in living a life of joy. When we think in negative terms we attract negative energy. It’s the one aspect of life ...

4-year-old superhero has the power to feed the homeless

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“Don’t forget to show love!” Austin Perine This uplifting story of adorable 4 year-old Austin Perine from Birmingham, Alabama, puts the biggest smile on my face and renews hope in my heart. This beautiful child  instinctively understands what far too many adults don’t or won’t embrace - sharing love with all people! Linn Park in Birmingham is a regular stop with many of Austin’s “customers” recognizing the red-caped superhero as the highlight of their day!  Austin doesn’t look for the differences in others, just how he can help by sharing a simple chicken sandwich and spreading a message of love with those in need. He uses his allowance and forfeits toys to pay for his superhero mission of feeding those without because according to Austin, “it’s the right thing to do.”  (Austin and his Dad, Terrence) I sing the praises and commend his dad, Terrence (TJ) for supporting his son’s efforts to spread the love by going out weekly into his community to feed the homeless. Austin ...

Positive Thoughts For the Mind

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  When living in challenging times one of the most important and often the hardest concept to focus on is keeping a positive attitude. One of my favorite quotes is from Buddha: “What you think you become. What you feel you attract. What you imagine you create.” And, what we consume in the mainstream media day after day can exacerbate the stress and anxiety we already feel about events on the local and world stage. Maybe we need to change the quality and type of energy we are exposing ourselves to on a regular basis. I’m not naive, but when I interact with folks, it’s is a far cry from the images I see on television. Face to face, most people are considerate. When we don’t project negative energy on others and assume we know what they’re about, we all get along a little better. As a cancer survivor, one of the most valuable lessons I took away from my experience is the power of positive thought and attitude. I could have gotten depressed and given up, believing that the ca...

What Are You Thankful For?

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Sharing a Thanksgiving meal with loved ones is truly a blessing. Having food on the table and a roof overhead is a luxury not everyone can afford. As we enjoy our traditional turkey and pumpkin pie, let’s remember those without. Reaching out and sharing should be part of our consciousness as I believe we are our brother’s keeper. As a cancer survivor, I am keenly aware that tomorrow is not promised, appreciative that no matter how bleak the world may seem, we are only here as flesh and blood for a second in the Universe of time. We should not take for granted that we, as well as friends and family, will always be here. As a child, I remember Sunday family dinners being a time to catch up on our week and just enjoy each other’s company. No TV, No Phones, but quality time to bond and appreciate these special moments. Merely hanging out with our cohorts is a precious gift we should treasure and make time for in our busy lives. Enjoying these riches is a blessing we should value and apprec...