One of the most valuable questions I have learned to ask myself before I respond to a situation is, how can I be helpful?  When I start from this perspective I am able to address any issue with compassion.   That doesn’t mean that I get involved in all interactions.   Sometimes the most compassionate thing I can do is pray and walk away.  Silent prayers asking Jesus to guide the person or situation.   Not contributing to frustration, anger, fighting or dangerous situations might be the best decision.  Being helpful might require suggesting support for someone or maybe lending a listening…

Many years ago, I discovered just how wrong I could be when judging a gift.  It was a gift for one of my children, and I felt it was unnecessary.  To be honest, I didn’t want it cluttering up the house.  At the time, we didn’t have a basement or extra storage.  I remember this item being on the gift list at least three times, which means a birthday, Christmas, and yet another birthday without being purchased. The item, a snow cone machine, finally made it under the tree two years after the original request.  I had seen…

My goal this year was to gain better focus. During this beautiful, busy chaotic time of year, I find myself easily distracted by everything happening around me.  My mind moves in every direction not to miss any excitement around the season. Instead of punishing myself for lack of focus, I apply focus to each distraction.  Each time my mind wanders I ask myself why I am thinking about this particular issue.   No matter how small or large the issue, I pray for clarity and opportunity to move forward.  I give thanks to Jesus for a solution before a solution is…

Suffering is difficult and very personal.  For several years now I have been a full-time caregiver.  I have learned some things worth sharing, however, every situation is uniquely different. In The Book of Joy, I remember reading that the Dalai Lama approaches every situation and person with compassion.  Every interaction, whether through the eyes, the voice, the touch, everything from a perspective of joy. Before reading The Book of Joy, I had numerous interactions with Path to Faith, an organization founded by the Nemeh’s with the mission of bringing people closer to God by experiencing His love and…