Diamonds

For your consideration…..

What a beautiful diamond. Who wouldn’t want to wear that?

Our message today compares us to a beautiful diamond and reminds us of our many facets.

We are asked to remember who we are. We are asked to polish our facets and bring them to use each day.

Further we are told that just because we “can” does not mean we “should”. Just because we are stronger than someone does not mean we should use that strength or bully.  Just because we have a quick sharp tongue does not mean we should use it. Just because we have freedom of speech does not mean we should use speech to do harm or hurt someone’s feelings unjustly. Just because we are smarter than someone does not mean we should outsmart them unfairly. Just because others are rude, discourteous or obnoxious does not mean we should mimic or respond in kind.

That does not mean our strength, critique and intelligence is not necessary. It doesn’t mean we shouldn’t use our gifts or dumb ourselves down. It means we should polish up the facets of our soul and use our gifts discreetly, wisely and from a kind and loving soul.

We are being asked to bring our best self forward. No, that may not be what surrounds us. It certainly is not what we hear on the news. But we can choose not to listen, not to participate.  We can choose to live our lives to a higher standard. We matter. We make a difference. Everything we think or do has impact. We can choose to be the change.

That is the HOPE. And so it is.

Bit by bit, piece by piece, HOPE by HOPE action steps anyone can take…..

-Meditate. Focus on you perfect self.

-Drink lots of water.

-Cut down on caffeine.

-Get outdoors and take in at least 10 deep breaths.

-Take the high road in all you do today.

What made me smile yesterday…..

-A great walk along the river with Dude.

-Cooler temperatures and a great breeze.

-Tomatoes, cucumbers and perch from my neighbor for dinner. Delicious.

-Talks with Alex and Jackie.

-A magnificent thunderstorm during the night that continues this morning. I love the rain. We desperately needed this soaking.

P.S. Jody, I HOPE you had a happy birthday yesterday.

Love, Blessings and Gratitude,

Chris