Everyone has a story

You see a man at the grocery store yelling at the clerk. You may think he is this way because he was treated unfairly, maybe it is because of something in his past and that maybe it is not his fault. Maybe it is. Either way, there is a story. And because there is a story it is a chance to show grace and compassion.

You see a woman scream at her child for picking up a candy bar near the checkout. You may think she is this way because she is trying to teach her kids right from wrong, maybe she is short on time or maybe it is because she cannot afford the candy bar. Still, there is a story.

Think of someone you see casually each day but have never talked to. The waitress at the local coffee shop, the security guard or the person who eats lunch alone each day.

Even though we have never spoken to any of these people, it is human nature to make up a story in our mind about who they are, what kind of people they and what they are like.

We even do this for people we do not know very well.We are quick to judge on these stories we have created in our minds. What do you think would happen if we stopped listening to the stories as we think they are in our minds, but rather stopped and listened to the real story?

Everyone has a story to tell. We all learn from one another. We all learn from experience.Take some time to get the real story, of their experience.

Everyone wants to be heard and feel that what they have to say is meaningful to others. As you get older, you realize just how much more important these stories become. And how important it is just to be heard.

Take the opportunity to listen with open ears, open mind and an open heart to the stories of the people around you. It will greatly enrich your life and soul!

You will meet new friends, be humbled by the challenges that some people face, and be inspired and encouraged by the accomplishments they have achieved. Listen without making judgments and resist the urge to tell your own story. You will be giving a gift to everyone around you and will get some very special gifts in return.

Remember that everyone has a story and every story matters!

Encourage others!

It could change the world!

What encourages you? Do the same for others.

We are quick to criticize but how often do we share complements? I know I am quick to jot off a quick email when something bad happens at a store or I get bad service or something. But recently I was so impressed by the associates at our local Publix I wrote them a quick thank you email. Do you know one of the assistant managers called to say thanks? So often they hear what they are doing wrong not the positive things.

When someone is discouraged or hurting, offer to help. Don't be general like 'I would like to help' instead offer to do something specific that would help them. Example we helped some neighbors today put up foam siding on the ceiling of a workshop building for their new business. Not easy work. We were not asked to do it, we just did it. And our whole family helped!

Write someone a note to let them know you are thinking of them. It means more to them than you will ever know! Kids love this too!

Celebrate the little things! Kids need encouragement when they do things correctly. Have you ever given the same encouragement to an adult and see the results?! Amazing!

Think about it! Has someone encouraged you? What have you done today to encourage someone?

More than a holiday!

July Fourth is more than just a holiday. It's celebration goes to the beginnings of our country. It is meant to honor the patriotism of those 56 brave men who put their lives, families and property on the line, when they signed the Declaration of Independence in 1776.

We still have those who are fighting for those same freedoms and rights. Nathan, our neighbors son, is fighting in the war in Iraq. Fittingly on July 4th, today, he is on a flight landing at home as we speak.

The kids and we as a family are ready to say thank you. He is home for 2 weeks, so we don't want to take up much of his time. We are dressed in our red, white and blue, our flags are raised and the kids have drawn 'thank you' pictures for Mr. Nathan.

I for one, am thankful for the sacrifices he is making for our country. There are still those, who in a heart beat, would take this country down.

You may not personally know a soldier, but you can say thank you. Show you honor our country...wear red, white and blue and fly our flag.

Thank you Nathan! Enjoy your visit home! Thanks for keeping my family safe!