Giving and Receiving

One of the most giving persons I've ever known is my sister, Betty. Oh sure, she has her bad moments like the rest of us, but trust me, she has a lot more patience and kindness! I had great respect for her* as a teenager and young woman, going to her for advice many times. She and my brother-in-law were there for me when I needed support, and I have never made it clear to them how much that meant. You say thank you at the time, you even cry or hug. But it's only when you're older that you realize how much it meant, or how big a deal it was for them to offer their compassion and practical help as you struggled with a problem.

One thing I've noticed though about our family, and that is that sooner or later we get all emotional and let it all hang out, and that's a good thing. We don't think it's too undignified to show our appreciation for one another. Life it too short for that. Way too short. I swear it accelerates as the years pass, or so I perceive it. It's becoming one big blur, each day whizzing by.

Whoever may read this, think about it. Love everyone you can around you. My motto is: Yesterday is gone (cherish but don't regret, it's over), Tomorrow may never come (plan, but don't expect), but today...today is NOW...pay attention to it...use it well...it's all you have.

*I still do...