Focus your thoughts on good things and good people

Many times in my life, I looked over at my mother’s framed photograph that sits on the desk in my office and remember the words my mother spoke and… more importantly… her kind actions that reflected her great love for people. “Always be nice to everyone,” she would tell me, “Treat others with kindness.”

I don’t think there is anything that God loves more than to see His children help one another.

Your influence on other people’s lives is immeasurable. And God has hand-selected you, for you’re a gift to others from God. By being friendlier, more patient, understanding and speaking kindly to another, you are being more helpful than you know. Passing out lovely thoughts, words and actions, you are changing lives and putting everlasting joy into your own.

Think of it this way: Live in such a way that those who know you, but don’t know God, will come to know God because of you.

Always practice acts of kindness. There are hundreds of opportunities each day to give of your time, to bring help and happiness to someone. So, wake up each day and ask God, “How can I be a blessing to someone today?”

Accordingly, let us speak kind- heartedly, thoughtfully, sincerely, with inspiration to each other. Make every word that comes out of your mouth edify. Words of compassion and understanding can help other people get through trying times. “I know, I have been through that situation,” “I am praying for you,” “You’re going to be fine,” or “Everything will be alright,” can be like a healing balm to the recipient’s ears.

Scripture says, “Be on guard. Stand firm in the faith. Be courageous. Be strong. And do everything with love.” (1 Corinthians 16:13-14). For statements of love, reassurance and understanding are vital. Therefore, watch what you say, using words with extreme wisdom.

When I was a little girl, my mother didn’t drive a car. When it was time to go grocery shopping, we had to walk to the food store, pulling a cart behind us in which to put the groceries. I still remember how careful we had to be, not buying any items that weighed too much, because they would be too heavy for us to carry home. Like that cart full of groceries, we must be careful what we carry home with us. Leave the angry words, sarcastic remarks and negativity at the door. And don’t bring them into the house.

Avoid bickering and fault-finding. Even when delivered in fun, criticism can hurt and have lasting effects, stunting the growth of a healthy self-image. Maybe you were raised in a home where you were unfairly criticized, but you can stand strong and say, “I am not passing that on to my family.” If words do not build confidence, establish love or encourage another, it is better to say nothing at all. Let’s pray that God will lead us to say and do the right things, speaking the truth in love.

A while ago, I heard about a grade-school teacher who asked her students, “How do you spell love?” Ingeniously, a little girl raised her hand and replied, “T-I-M-E.” So, slow down, listen patiently and answer questions kindly. Your fine example can be passed down generation after generation. Your home is where your heart rests. Thus, let harmony, peace and joy be present in every room. Hug your children and your spouse. Share laughter and smile often, always showing respect, kindness and affection. Point out certain achievements and offer compliments. Your caring, optimistic attitude will activate those around you in a positive way and will give back positive results. Through the years, I have gotten into the habit of jotting down a few words of praise on a little yellow sticky note and placing it in my daughter’s lunch box. One day, she came home from school and said, “Mommy, I gave the note you wrote to me to one of my friends.”

Curious, I asked, “Why, honey?” My daughter explained, “Well, I noticed that my friend never gets any notes, and I thought she could use mine.” Similarly, encourage discouraged hearts. And if someone does something kind for you, pass the kindness along. “Let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise and recognize our Heavenly Father within you.” (Matthew 5:16).

God has given you special gifts and strengths. You, dear readers, are a miracle for so many. Begin today to assist others to build a brighter future by passing on kindnesses. Goodness is the investment that never fails.

There is no better exercise for the heart than bending down to lift up another.

The best part of your life is still in front of you. God will provide more opportunities, more friendships, and more successes for you to enjoy. God’s hand is upon you; He goes ahead of you and walks with you through every situation and will lead you into the abundant life He has in store. Focus your thoughts on all of the good things and people you have in your life. And express sincere gratitude out loud. So, find someone to be good to every single day. For the world needs your radiance to shine brightly to make it a better place.

When I linger in the office in front of my mother’s photograph, I wish she were here to see how joyful I am to follow her advice. Then, in less than an instant, somehow, bright with inspiration and hope, I feel she is looking over the banister of heaven and… she knows.

Kindness…. Pass it on!