Seeing as it's Christmas time as well as because of the events of the last week I think we need, or at least I need, another Good in the world post. So despite the fact that bad things happen, and so often to such very good and innocent people, I think there is evidence of good as well. It doesn't take much. I think it's so easy to focus on the bad and to ask "Where is God when these bad things happen?" I know that God has given us each the ability to make our own choices and he will not interfere with this sacred gift. Sometimes he will whisper words of warning to us that may help to keep us out of harms way, but he won't always do that. We are here in the life, on this earth, to experience things, to experience life and as much as I want it to be all rainbows and butterflies it isn't, and can't be. That is what heaven is for, right? At any rate, God not only whispers words of warning to us in times of danger he will whisper words of encouragement, words of hope, and words of happiness. He often nudges us to help others with these words. And no, we don't usually hear these things with our ears, nor voices in our head, its just a thought or a feeling, "I should call so-and-so today." or "I wonder if ---- needs some dinner brought over or a treat" Why do we feel these things at times? Because we are here to spread all the good we can, so look around and watch for the good happening around you, and even better be a part of it. Look for the good you can do, "listen" for the thoughts you have to help others even if it is as simple as a phone call or text. Here are some of my observations of good lately.
My Grandpa. This guy is a constant giver and helper to those around him and I have been lucky enough to be the recipient of his help more times than I can count, both as a child and as an adult. He has a quick and cheerful smile, he would give you the shirt off his back (and I don't doubt that he may have actually done that at some point in his life) He loves kids and always manages to make everyone around him feel young again, because he has such a jolly, youthful spirit about him. He has canned peaches with me, helped us remodel our home, given kids rides to and from places, and gone on trips and activities with us. We love to have him around and are so blessed that he has been able to do so much with us.
Sunsets. I know, it isn't much. The wonderful thing about sunsets is that it is easily accessible. It is there no matter where you live or what may be going on around you. It is a beauty that is shared with all the world. There is something so serene about sunsets. It just makes you stop, if for just a moment, and soak in the beauty, I think that is so good for the soul. Visual beauty does that. To me sunsets are a good in this world.
People helping other people. I don't have a picture of those that helped but good friends of ours that are always there when we need help took at day to help us when this big pine tree blew over in a windstorm. They have been there countless times before when we have needed help. People that are willing to set aside their own needs and to-do lists to help are such a good in this world.
Here is an article of a kid that does this on a regular basis. We could all learn a little from him.
Then there is someone out there who is doing the 12 days of Christmas for our sweet friends. It is such a blessing for them as they have 5 cute girls and work hard just to make ends meet. They also do much to spread happiness to others around them so I'm so happy to see them being recipients of that kind of goodness too.
Babies. As always babies are just such a breath of fresh air. Their innocence reminds us to be better, their helplessness teaches us to be less selfish, their smiles and milestones remind us to take joy in the simple things of life.
Family
Snuggles (and naps!)
Friendships
A sense of humor and Silliness
Random and small sightings of beauty
It doesn't have to be a big thing, a grand act, or cost anything. There is good in the world, just look for it and you will find something.
