Compassion

Everyone has their own struggles.  You have yours.  Your next door neighbor has theirs.  I have mine.  On a daily basis, we interact with so many people.  Usually these interactions go fairly smoothly.  Sometimes you meet people you don't really understand though.  Years ago I learned that you never know what someone else is going through.  You don't know if they just lost a loved one, if they got let go from a job.  They may have been diagnosed with an illness, or may be getting separated or divorced.

I remember having a patient years ago that I dreaded seeing in clinic.  He was always impatient and made snarky comments every visit.  But remembering that my job was not to judge, I knew that my job was to take care of his medical problems and help him as much as was in my power.  So every visit I tried to keep my cool and just do my best.  One day, he told me that he had lost his wife one year earlier.  He got very quiet and started crying.  All of these memories and sadness overcame him.  It made sense why he was always so bitter and angry.  He was a man who had lost his love.  We talked about his wife and he shared some stories with me.

So, again, I don't always remember, but I try.  I try to keep in mind:

1. We all have our struggles.
2. We are all human (so don't be so hard on yourself and others).
3. We need to have compassion and help one another.

Thank you for reading my post.  Hugs and peace.....Aloha! ;-)

Here's a great song from Mercy Me....

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=GXI0B4iMLuU

Resolution

A resolution is defined as "a firm decision to do or not do something".  It's important for millions of people across the globe.  An annual effort or attempt to make a change in your life.  The intent is a positive one.  I like to partake in this ritual every year.  I figure wether it's attainable or not is besides the point.  At least we're trying to make a positive change, and that's what counts.

I've been thinking about what my resolution would be.  I was going to do my standard lose weight resolution that I say every year.  Then I had an epiphany!  What is it we all need that makes life so much better?  Something that if we didn't have, life would be a bore.  Ok, some of you are thinking sex.  That's true too.  But what I'm talking about is humor.

Humor is one of the most important ways to make your days brighter, fuller, through laughter.  Helpguide.com says laughter is good for your health.  Laughter relaxes the whole body, relieves physical tension and stress, leaving your muscles relaxed for up to 45 minutes after.  It boosts the immune system, decreases stress hormones and increases immune cells and infection-fighting antibodies, which improves your resistance to disease.  Laughter triggers the release of endorphins, which promote an overall sense of well-being and can even temporarily relieve pain.  Laughter can even protect the heart by improving the function of blood vessels and increases blood flow, which can help protect you against a heart attack and other cardiovascular problems.

So, with this in mind, I wish you a wonderful 2014 filled with great new memories made and lots of humor through laughter.  So loosen up a little, release your inhibitions, and count your blessings. Find the humor in situations.  You'll be more relaxed, enjoy life more, and all while smiling.  

Hugs and love,
Laura

Here's a funny clip from Ellen:

Ellen tries to find a mate for Loni Love