Did I help someone to realize a dream they thought they’d lost?
Did I listen when someone told me the reward is worth the cost?
Did I praise someone for their efforts and encourage someone toward their dreams?
Did I help someone to understand the end never justifies the means?
Did I make someone laugh and smile when they would much, rather frown?
Was I the one who picked them up when everyone put them down?
Am I, the one they confide in and know their conversations secure?
Image via Wikipedia
How often do you say to yourself and/or your kids. »I can’t afford it.« »If only we had more money.« »I don’t have time.«
But do you really need a lot of money and time to feel good and enjoy life? No. If I asked you when were you most happy, what would you say? When you had lots of money or would you remembered fun times with your friends or quite evenings with a good book. You know that being happy and satisfied has nothing to do with the money. And the same goes to time. Are you using it as an excuse?
It’s all about the attitude. The only thing you really need is an idea of what you want and some effort to follow the idea.
Image via Wikipedia
Today I have a little story for you (and I’m sure you’ve heard of it; it’s from Stephen Covey’s The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People
How many times we don’t find the time or the will to do something of value? How much time we spend for small, everyday stuff, when the big issues are waiting for us to find the space? And when raising the children, it become even more important. If we miss the opportunity to teach them lessons for life, we will never get that chance again.
So here is the story:
Of course, you would say »No.« And of course, I know that you can only live now in this present moment. But are your thoughts in the now? Or are you spending days dreaming (or fearing) about the future or complaining about the past? If so, you are not living in the present and you are not enjoying your time here and now. Your mind is turned to the past or future.
Let me first tell you two stories.
Teaching children secrets and values of life can sometimes be really overwhelming. I am promoting teaching through play, which I’m sure you are familiar with. But now I »discovered« another great easy way – showing them how someone else is doing it. And if this someone is a hero, a champion or someone your child admire, it’s getting even easier.
You know that my daughter is competing in swimming and just recently I bought her a book about Michael Phelps. (I have a good excuse for not buying it before:) She didn’t know enough of English to read it. Now she is willing to give it a try and I’m proud to say she understands most of it. Yet another benefit.). Michael is an exceptional athlete, winning 8 gold medals at last Olympic games.
Gratitude
is the Best Attitude
SelfGrowth.com
is the most complete FREE guide to information about Personal Growth on the Internet. 
