Shared Blessings ~

 

I believe each and every one of us has a multitude of blessings in our lives, and yet, sometimes we are too busy to see and appreciate them.

In sharing these blessings...from thought, to words, to print, we empower ourselves to see what we have in our everyday life. 

May these sharing's, listed below, inspire you and bring JOY to your life!  

If you have a personal story or life experience or blessing that has touched your life in a positive way please share it with us so it can inspire others. These writings will be shared with the world, through this website, and other forms of media and literary works. To add your blessing, please click here to do so.  

~

On this day, this new day…. there is light!

As shared by Amanda Gorman in her poem The Hill We Climb at the presidential inauguration of Joe Biden, her words enlighten and inspire us…and shared in part here:

The new dawn blooms as we free it

For there is always light,

if only we’re brave enough to see it

if only we’re brave enough to be it

May we be empowered for we each play a part in rising up and sharing the best of ourselves with each other and the world around us.

On this day, this new day….there is light!

Glori Gage ~ January 21, 2021

 

The year of 2020, it came...it went...it proved to be a year like no other!

As our world continues to fight this global pandemic, it has shown us the greatest of heroes, those essential workers on the frontlines working (and risking) for the needs of others.  This moment in time, has spotlighted the many areas of inequality that exists, and it needs our time, attention, and proactive action for change.  We can not “unsee” what we have seen this year and we must use this knowledge to do our part for change.  I believe to live a truly conscious and fulfilling life, it comes from helping others and the greater good.  Each of us can do our part by “walking the walk” and supporting those who are aligned in this philosophy.  What an amazing New Year of 2021 when we are working together for a better future for all of us!

Glori Gage ~ December 31, 2020

A wonderful New Year begins!

As I close the chapter on 2018, I am taking “pause” to reflect on what has transpired over this past year as a means to equip myself going forward into this New Year of 2019.   I will look at the good, bad and yes, even the ugly events to be inspired, strengthened and reminded that each of us has a choice in how we live going forward…ALWAYS choose positive and proactive! I have always believed “it’s not what happens in life, but what you do with it that counts.”  With that said, may each one of us have the courage to find one's voicewalk the walk and do our part knowing that it will fuel us…inspire others and make a difference.

So today, the first day of this AMAZING New Year…

I wish each and everyone to share the “BEST of you” with yourself, others and this world of ours!

Glori Gage ~ January 1, 2019

"The Spirit of Christmas"

I saw the Spirit of Christmas, and it came in a 9-year-old boy.  It was a busy Friday afternoon with everyone coming and going on Yonge Street and there was a woman who sat beside the sidewalk with a cardboard sign sharing her need.  I saw this young boy approach and without even a hesitation he reached into his pocket pulled out a $5.00 dollar bill and gave it to this woman.  The woman said, “Thank you” and the young boy said “Anytime.”  It was heartwarming to see someone so young have the empathy for someone’s need and to give of himself in his generosity.  It was a blessing for all involved, including me, for having witnessed this kind gesture it inspired me in a whole new way.  So today, I wish you a Christmas Season filled with witnessing and being part of the Spirit of Christmas.   

Glori Gage ~ November 30, 2018

 

I have decided to do something that I have not done since my high school days...swim lengths! Yes, many years ago I was a young, eager and waterlogged individual as a member of the swim team.  Well, I can say that I am considerably slower than I was then, but it's great to be back in the pool and stretching my body in more ways than one! Today, while I was literally taking a breather, a fellow swimmer and I engaged in a conversation that led to his sharing about his philosophy of life.  He said “There are 3 important things in life ~ 1. How you love. 2. How gentle you live your life. 3. How you let go of things that aren’t yours." With his gentle words and joyful spirit, he inspired me!  I always knew that swimming was healthy for the body...but on this day I found it to be healthy for my state of mind! 

Glori Gage ~ April 19, 2018

 

I have always been one to collect special moments.

To me, it's never been about the quantity of time its always been about the quality!
And so after an afternoon with friends, I received a touching thank you note
which included this beautiful quote ~

"A friend is one who creates a circle of belonging, 
a sacred place in which all is safe,
all is calm, all is good."

~ Olivia Cytrynowicz 
At the Heart of Friendship

It moved me to tears knowing that our time together had created a special moment
and that I also have a friend that fills me with love and belonging. 
So today I wish you the same....no matter who "this friend" is in your life be it 
a treasured family member, kind neighbor or beloved four-legged furry one...
may you always know that you have a place where

all is safe...all is calm...all is good!
 

Glori Gage ~ March 13, 2018

“Feel the Hard Feelings.”

I have been feeling a little out of sorts lately.  Not sure if its the weather, time of year or just going through some life changes that are affecting my state of mind.  For me, change always brings about feelings...good ones, bad ones, and in-between ones!  And so it was at this perfect time that I came across Cait Flanders speaking about her new book “The Year of Less.”  She shared her life, her challenges, and the success that she has had implementing a new philosophy about having less which has transformed her in all areas of her life.  When she mentioned her struggles, she said one must “feel the hard feelings.”  There it was exactly what I needed to hear at that exact moment in time. It was OK to feel what I was feeling even if I didn’t understand where it was coming from or where it was going...it was needed.  My state of mind shifted, and I found myself thinking just let life in and feel the hard feelings because it is a natural part of my personal growth, health, and well-being.  Cait’s words made me smile...made me cry and inspired me.  And so if you too are in a state of “feeling”...celebrate it!   Trust that it is an integral part of being human and needed to move us forward... and that a bright new day is on the horizon!

               Glori Gage ~ March 6, 2018

Happy New Year

It is now nearing the end of January and another amazing year has just begun.  I find it fascinating how time just seems to fly by and especially so as I am currently going through boxes...and boxes of paraphernalia that I have collected over the years.  I have said to myself, “It is time to lessen the load”.  As I revisit the past it has brought me such joy to see pictures, mementos, cards and everything else under the sun that has woven together the tapestry of life...my tapestry of life!  I have come across childhood treasures like an old sock doll that I painstakingly made at a tender age, a beautiful card from my beloved Aunt who has since passed and a tiny note “thank you for loving me” written in child script by my young nephew after a visit. It has brought me light and empowered me in a way I did not know possible.  I know our world is at odds at this time and its clouds darken our lives, but it is in these treasures, being past or present, that empower us to journey on.  So, as I continue to sift through my life to find the treasures, I wish you the very same. It is time to lessen the load and throw away ‘the stuff’ or remove the noise and concentrate on those inspiring treasures in your life...they will light the way. 

Wishing you a fabulous and empowering New Year!

Glori Gage ~ January 30, 2018

Thankful

It was over the Christmas holidays that I was listening to one of my favorite Christmas CDs ~ Josh Groban’s Noёl.  I had heard his song “Thankfulmany times before but for some reason this year it moved me in a whole new way.  I am not sure if it was because of the state of the world, the state of my life, or just the state of my mind...but this song spoke to me!

We have so much to be thankful for and each one of us has blessings to look to and to be grateful for.  I believe one cannot understand the true meaning of happiness unless they have a sense of gratitude.  So let us look to these blessings and gifts that we have been given each and every day and use those simple words “Thank You” to feed our hearts...our lives and those around us.

It will enrich us ...and enrich the world.

And so today, the first day of this wonderful New Year...let us give thanks!

Thankful

Somedays, we forget to look around us,
Somedays, we can't see the joy that surrounds us,
So caught up inside ourselves,
We take when we should give,
So for 
tonight, we pray for,
What we know can be,
And on this day we hope for,
What we still can't see,
It's up to us, to be the change,
And even though we all can still do more,
There's so much to be thankful for,
Look beyond ourselves, there's so much sorrow,
It's way too late to say, I'll cry tomorrow,
Each of us must find our truth,
It's so long overdue,
So for 
tonight we pray for,
What we know can be,
And 
everyday, we hope for,
What we still can't see,
It's up to us, to be the change,
And even though we all can still do more,
There's so much to be thankful for,
Even with our differences,
There is a place we’re all connected,
Each of us can find each other’s light,
So tonight we pray for,
What we know can be,
And on this day we hope for,
What we still can't see,
It's up to us, to be the change,
And even though this world needs so much more,
There's so much to be thankful for.

~ Lyrics by Richard Page, Carole Bayer Sager
Music by David Foster

Glori Gage ~ January 1, 2017

 

Let nothing dim the light that shines from within.”

Maya Angelou

I had a wonderful opportunity this past year to grow and learn and found that this ‘old dog’ could learn new tricks!  It was exciting for me to manoeuvre through uncharted territory and realize that I could make my mark; however, when the storm came my integrity and self-respect were challenged.  I had the choice to ‘dim my light and conform’ or speak up – in speaking up, it cost me this opportunity.  I know if I had not done so, the cost to me would have been greater.

I learned more than I expected from this experience; for no one should be allowed or feel they have the right to demean, diminish, devalue or dim your light, and you should never allow one to do so.   Listen closely to your inner self and access your circumstances, your environment, your relationships and “let nothing dim the light that shines from within.”

With this amazing New Year upon us, may your light always shine bright!

Glori Gage ~ January 3, 2016

 

I came across this beautiful and inspiring message today...funny how life provides.  For I was feeling like I had missed a wonderful opportunity some time back and was regretting it.  So today I was a little like John Barrymore and ventured forth with my dreams!

A man is not old until regrets
take the place of dreams.”

— John Barrymore

Widely acclaimed as the greatest Shakespearean actor of his generation, John Barrymore married four times and passed away performing live on a radio show.  He refused to give up his love of acting or his love of love.  Chasing his dreams, he lived his life until his last breath. 

Mr. Barrymore refused to accept conventional wisdom that would have us believe there is a time that we should acquiesce, put up the white flag, pull up the rocking chair and accept that our best days are behind us. A time when we should sit back and watch the news rather than make the news, read about history versus making it. The proverbial golden years, a time to reflect on what could have been, or should have been.

I would argue that Mr. Barrymore was on to something. That a life defined by dreams versus regrets generates an energy that is ageless. Dreams propel us forward with a childlike enthusiasm, transforming our perspective and framing a view of hope and optimism. We work to achieve our goals, but we chase after our dreams. Dreams often tap into our core beliefs, those things we would fight for and die for. History has proven that man will work for a dollar, but die for what he believes in.

Maybe John Barrymore was more than a famous actor, and rather should be remembered as a great discoverer. Maybe the long-searched-for fountain of youth lies inside all of us. Maybe it’s not about living forever, but forever living every moment and chasing our dreams until our last breath, just as he did.

Dream on.

Carpe Diem,

~ by Gary Friedman Chairman & CEO of RH

 Glori Gage ~ Jan. 30, 2015 

 

I came to journaling as a young child with my very first diary. 

It was a 5-year diary so the space for my writings was very small,

hence, I had to learn to condense my thoughts and sharing's

Once I got older, I realized that I loved having this intimate place to write

my inner thoughts, wishes, fears and life questions.

 I feel I have learned more about myself in this way than any other. 

With my love of journaling, I always keep my eyes out for journal books

and ones that are bigger than a mini 5-year diary! 

Today I found one with a wonderful and special message on the front ~

See for yourself.

Go places.

Seek out the good.

Tread lightly.

Worry less.

Take chances.

Face your fears.

Do what you love.

Give back.

Make a difference.

Laugh a lot.

Breathe deeply.

Know peace.

Enjoy the journey.

Live while you live.

 

Embrace this day...your life and the amazing person that you are!

 

 Glori Gage ~ Jan. 11, 2015

 

 Success is speaking words of praise,

In cheering other people's ways,

In doing just the best you can,

With every task and every plan,

It's silence when your speech would hurt,

Politeness when your neighbor's curt,

It's deafness when the scandal flows,

And sympathy with other's woes,

It's loyalty when duty calls,

It's courage when disaster falls,

It's patience when the hours are long,

It's found in laughter and in song,

It's in the silent time of prayer,

In happiness and in despair,

In all the life and nothing less,

We find the thing we call success.

  Success
~ Anonymous

Offie Leishman ~ Jan. 7, 2015

 

"In spite of everything I still believe that people are really good at heart."

~ Anne Frank
Diary of a Young Girl

Offie Leishman - Jan. 6, 2015

 

    “All endings are also beginnings,

we just don’t know it at the time.”

~ Mitch Albom 

Glori ~ Jan. 2, 2015

 

Happy New Year!

I always find the beginning of each year an exciting time. A time to gather what needs to be carried forward ....

a time to let go of things no longer needed...and a time to be open for exciting new discoveries.

With this New Year, I wish you a state of grace, peace, and adventure!

Glori Gage ~ Jan. 1, 2015 

 

A beautiful Christmas wish shared with me...

and I share with you ~

 

I hope this Christmas comes to you

Joyous and softly, with the rustle of

Angel’s wings, with the warmth of a

Candle’s glow, with the laughter of

children and a Ho ho ho

 

I hope it arrives with the beauty of

Church Bells with the scent of

Cinnamon & Pine and brings much

warmth & love to make

your Heart shine.

 

Wishing you a magical Christmas surrounded

in light...

in love...

in joy...

 that is the spirit of Christmas.

 Glori Gage ~ Dec. 25, 2014 

 

"I've learned that people will forget what you said,

people will forget what you did,

but people will never forget how you made them feel."

~ Maya Angelou

VP ~ Dec. 16, 2014 

 

Sixteen years ago I learned this lesson.

And I learned it in the back of a New York City taxicab.

Here’s what happened:
I hopped in a taxi, and we took off for Grand Central Station. We were driving in the right lane when all of a sudden, a black car jumped out of a parking space right in front of us.  My taxi driver slammed on his brakes, the car skidded, the tires squealed, and at the very last 
moment our car stopped just one inch from the other car’s back-end. I could not believe it.  But then I could not believe what happened next. The driver of the other car, the guy who almost caused a big accident, whipped his head around and he started yelling bad words at us.  But then here’s what really blew me away.  My taxi driver just smiled and waved at the guy. And I mean, he was friendly.  So, I said, “Why did you just do that!?  This guy could have killed us!” And this is when my taxi driver told me what I now call, “The Law of the Garbage Truck®.” 

He said:
Many people are like garbage trucks. They run around full of garbage, full of frustration, full of anger, and full of disappointment.  As their garbage piles up, they look for a place to dump it.  And if you let them, they’ll dump it on you.  So, when someone wants to dump on you, don’t take it personally.  Just
smile, wave, wish them well, and move on. Believe me. You’ll be happier.

You make room for the good by letting go of the bad.

~ The Law of the Garbage Truck® 
by David J. Pollay


   Vicki Parrish ~ Dec. 12, 2014 

 

I found these beautiful words on a card that honored "a life well-lived..."
Brian MacDonald's life was a life well-lived!
 

 A life well-lived...
is a precious gift of hope and strength and grace
from someone who has made our world a brighter, better place. 
It's filled with moments sweet and sad, with smiles and sometimes tears
with friendships formed and good times shared and laughter through the years.
A life well-lived is a legacy of joy and pride and 
pleasure,
a loving, lasting memory our grateful hearts will treasure.

 

Brian's legacy continues with all of those who have been touched  
and inspired by his love, passion, and
dedication to the Arts. 
 
~ Tribute to Brian MacDonald

Glori Gage ~ Nov. 29, 2014 

 

A mighty wind blew night and day

It stole the oak tree's leaves away.

Then snapped its boughs and pulled its bark

Until the oak was tired and stark.

 

But still the oak tree held its ground

While other trees fell all around.

The weary wind gave up and spoke,

“How can you still be standing, Oak?”

 

The Oak tree said, “I know that you

Can break each branch of mine in two,

Carry every leaf away,

Shake my limbs and make me sway.

 

But I have roots stretched in the earth,

Growing stronger since my birth.

You’ll never touch them, for you see,

They are the deepest part of me.

 

Until today, I wasn’t sure

Of just how much I could endure.

But now I’ve found, with thanks to you,

I’m stronger than I ever knew.”

 ~ The Oak Tree 

Glori  ~ Sept. 16, 2014 

 

"Grace is the beauty of form under the influence of freedom."

~ Chef Curtis Duffy

Glori ~ June 14, 2014

 

 The Dalai Lama, when asked what surprised him most about humanity, answered...
" Man. Because he sacrifices his health in order to make money.  Then
he 
 sacrifices money to recuperate his health.  Then he is so anxious about
 the future that he does not enjoy the present; the result being that he does
 not
live in the present or the future; he lives as if he is never going to die,
and then dies having never really lived. "

~ Dalai Lama

Hae Kwang Robert ~ February 24, 2014
 

Opening to the Heart ~

The heart is the gateless gate to reality.  Move from the head to the heart. 

We are all hung up in the head.  That is our only problem, the only one problem. 

And there is one solution: get down from the head into the heart and all problems disappear. 

They are created by the head. 

And suddenly everything is so clear and so transparent that one is surprised how one was continuously inventing problems. 

Mysteries remain but problems evaporate. 

And mysteries are beautiful. 

They are not to be solved. 

They have to be lived.

~ Meditation
The First and Last Freedom
by Osho

 Lee ~ February 22, 2014

 

 Happy New Year!!

Another year ahead, to continue what is working in our lives and change the things that are not.
With this in mind, a very interesting study was conducted regarding when you are skidding in a car.
If you are looking at something that you are trying NOT to hit....you will hit it.... 
hence always look to the open space instead of the object that may cause harm.

So my motto for this wonderful New Year of 2014 ~
'Keep your sights on the goal, not the fear'

Wishing you a year filled with good health, adventure and 'open space'!

~ Glori Gage

  Glori ~ January 1, 2014

 

 “Life isn’t about how you survived the storm,

but how you danced in the rain.“

~ Vivian Greene 

Susan ~ November 5, 2013

 

If it’s meant for you, you won’t have to beg for it.

You will never have to sacrifice your dignity for your destiny.”

~ Chelsis Porter

  LJ ~ November 4, 2013

 

Do it Anyway

People are often unreasonable, irrational, and self-centred.

Forgive them anyway.

If you are kind, people may accuse you of selfish, ulterior motives.

Be kind anyway.

If you are successful, you will win some unfaithful friends and some genuine enemies.

Succeed anyway.

If you are honest and sincere people may deceive you.

Be honest and sincere anyway.

What you spend years creating, others could destroy overnight.

Create anyway.

If you find serenity and happiness, some may be jealous.

Be happy anyway.

The good you do today, will often be forgotten.

Do good anyway.

Give the best you have, and it will never be enough.

Give your best anyway.

In the final analysis, it is between you and God.

It is never between you and them anyway.

~ A version of 
The Paradoxical Commandments
Kent M. Keith

                                                                                                                                         Loula ~ September.13, 2013

Dive in

Jump in

Take a BIG step

Take a small step

Say hello to fear

Say hello to uncertainty

Say hello to your uncomfortable zone

Say goodbye to thinking too much

Say goodbye to talking without doing

Say goodbye to wishing you could

Because you can!

 ~ Alissa Finerman

Laura ~ June 4, 2013 

 

"May the Sun bring you new energy by day,
May the Moon softly restore you by night,
May the Rain wash away your worries,
May the Breeze blow new strength into your being,
May you Walk gently through the world and 
know its beauty all the days of your life."

~ Apache Blessing

Margaret ~ April 6, 2013 

 

"We are made for this moment." 

~ U.S. President Barack Obama
 

Quote from Inaugural Address ~ January 21, 2013 

 

Happy New Year!

A wonderful year of new beginnings.
May you see each and every day as a gift,
appreciate every blessing in your life,
and realize that you have the power
  to be the best you.

Wishing you sunshine, laughter, health & great JOY!

~ Glori Gage

Glori ~ January 1, 2013

 

 "Stuff your eyes with wonder,
live as if you'd drop dead in ten seconds.
See the world.

It's more fantastic than any dream
made or paid for in factories."
 

 ~ Ray Bradbury

Teal ~ December 31, 2012

 

Freedom is not the ability to run from our responsibilities,
but the courage to soar toward our possibilities.

 

E. Brown ~ December 20, 2012  

 

 "Let's choose today to quench our thirst for the 'good life' we think others lead
by acknowledging the good that already exists in our lives.
We can then offer the universe the gift of our grateful hearts."

~ Simple Abundance
  Sarah Ban Breathnach
 

Vicki ~ November 7, 2012  

 

"Life is what you make of it.
Accept what you cannot change,
change what you cannot accept."

~ Steven Wells

Robert Cribb ~ October 20, 2012

 

 DANCE
as though no one is watching,

LOVE
as though you've never been hurt, 
 

SING
as though no one can hear you, 
 

LIVE
as though heaven is on earth.  

DANCEWhen you step into the unknown,
as though no one is watching you,  DANCEWhen you step into the unknown,
as though no one is watching you,  
~ Souza

Glori ~ October 15, 2012 

 

"After many years of marriage, I couldn't believe the abundant love that I felt on this day.
It was simply an afternoon lunch, but a special one for me for it was with my treasured 
Aunt and Uncle.  I was overjoyed by the invitation to visit with them, for I adore them and
realized one must seize the moment when these opportunities present themselves.  
This day was not a great one for my husband with pressing business decisions 
needing 
to be made, but there his was sitting across from me; blackberry turned off, not looking
at his watch, and totally present in his conversations.  I felt a wave of love for him, for
his priority was 'this moment' and with that, he 
honoured me and our family.  These are
the moments that are priceless and remind me what true blessings I have in my life."

 

Anonymous ~ July 11, 2012 

 

"This is my credo.
This is what I give my heart to.
I give my heart to God.
whose love, in Jesus, has claimed me.
I give my heart to others
for God's love, in Jesus, has made all people my brothers and sisters.
I give my voice to God
whose love, in Jesus, calls me to speak for those who have no voice.
I give my hands to God
whose love, in Jesus, calls me to lift and help and encourage
and bless my brothers and sisters.
I give my life to God
whose love, in Jesus, was given 
for me that I, too, 
might give my life, live my life, for others.
I give my heart to God that I might be
God's heart, God's voice, God's hands, God's presence in the world,
that I might sing the song of faith and be the song of faith for my brothers and sisters."
Amen
 
~ Affirmation of Faith
Written by Rev. Dennis Posno

Collier Street United Church ~ June 24, 2012 

 

"When you step into the unknown,
faith is knowing there will be something to stand on or you will be taught how to fly."

~ Barbara K. Winter

Jeanette ~ June 22, 2012  

 

After the passing of his beloved dog, a 6 year-old shares ~

"People are born so that they can learn how to live a good life -
like loving everybody all the time and being nice, right?
Well, dogs already know how to do that when they're born,
so they don't have to stay as long."


Live simply.

Love generously.

Care deeply.

Speak kindly.


Remember, if a dog was the teacher you would learn things like:

When loved ones come home, always run to greet them.

Never pass up the opportunity to go for a joyride.

Allow the experience of fresh air and the wind in your face to be pure Ecstasy.

Take naps.

Stretch before rising.

Run, romp, and play daily.

Thrive on attention and let people touch you.

Avoid biting when a simple growl will do.

On warm days, stop to lie on your back on the grass.

On hot days, drink lots of water and lie under a shady tree.

When you’re happy, dance around and wag your entire body.

Delight in the simple joy of a long walk.


Be loyal.

Never pretend to be something you’re not.

If what you want lies buried, dig until you find it.

When someone is having a bad day, be silent, sit close by, and nuzzle them gently.



LM ~ May 31, 2012  

 

Wishing you a day filled with
sunshine, laughter 
and peaceful blessings!

~ Glori Gage

Glori ~ April 27, 2012 

 Do what makes you happy.
Look
upon what gives you joy.
Listen to what lifts your spirit.
Speak to those who warm your heart.
Surround yourself with sights and sounds
and people who make you smile.

Cathy ~ April 13, 2012 

I am me.
There was only one of me created.
I was not cut out like a cookie from dough
..
I am so special I have my very own fingerprints, 
my very own face, my very own body.
I have my own thoughts, dreams 
and feelings.
Other people may have different feelings from me.
It is O.K not to agree with other people too.
I will make some mistakes and I will try to learn from them.
I will laugh at myself, but will not make fun of others.
I will have fun living inside my skin.

I have value.

I am important.

I am me.

I am special.I have value.
I am importantdid -but they will always remember how you made them feel.  .....

~ I'm Thumbody
SunBeams Program
 

Rainbows ~ April 2, 2012

 

When any woman honors herself, all women collectively
move closer to becoming what they are truly capable of being.

 ~ Embracing Womanhood

Margaret ~ March 31, 2012

 

 

Having someone who understands is a great blessing for ourselves.
Being someone who understands is a great blessing to others."

~ Janette Oke

Laura McCall Torno ~ March 22, 2012 

 

 

"Stay calm, be brave, wait for the signs."

~ Shelagh Gordon

Catherine Porter ~ March 17, 2012  

Happy New Year!!
 A wonderful time to look to all the blessings in our life
....
and to start this New Year with love, gratitude and
 positive energy for new beginnings!
Wishing you love, fulfillment, gratitude, and joy!!

~ Glori Gage

Glori ~ January 1, 2012

 

It’s never too late to be what you might have been.

~ George Elliot

Meg T ~ December 31, 2011

 

Don’t take your good fortune for granted.
Recognize that your opportunities do not
come from entitlement, they’re a gift.
Cherish, nurture and trust your loyal friends.
Give generously of yourself to please others.
Give generously of yourself to help others.
Take in good spirit and appreciate what others give you.
Lead by example.
Laugh hard and heartily.
Cry tears of sadness and tears of joy.
Say “I love you” to those you truly love.
People may not remember exactly what you said or what you
did -but they will always remember how you made them feel.

~ A Grandmother 

AG ~ December 31, 2011 

 

The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be
 seen or even touched - they must be felt with the heart.

~ Helen Keller

GG ~ November 23, 2011

 

You have to trust in something — your gut, destiny,
life, karma, whatever.
This approach has never let me down, and

 it has made all the difference in my life.”

~ Steve Jobs

Cathy E ~ October 7, 2011

 

"The first step is to find out what you love –
and don't be practical about it.
The second step is to start doing what you
love immediately, in any small way possible.
I've seen what happens to people when
they get to do what they love.
They light up. They glow.

They have a kind of energy that's wonderful."

~ Barbara Sher

Laura T ~ July 7, 2011

 

"I've learned that whenever I decide something with an open heart,
I usually make the right decision."

~ Maya Angelou

Deb ~ July 1, 2011

 

It was an early morning, when my 6-year-old nephew and I were cuddled
up on his parent’s bed.  He was engrossed in his 
favourite cartoons and
 I was happy to just have this special time with him.  When out of the blue, 
he
 turned to me and said, “Aunt G, I love you”.  The innocence, the tenderness
...the love that I felt in that instant has filled me for a lifetime!

Aunt G ~ June 29, 2011

 

I believe in the sun, even if it does not shine.
I believe in love, even if I do not know it.
I believe in God, even when he is silent.

FM ~ June 18, 2011

  

BEHOLD this beautiful day and all the blessings before us!

Anonymous ~ May 31, 2011

 

I believe sometimes one needs to step outside of one’s life,
if only for a moment, to truly see the blessed life that one has.
I find if I look 
to what I 'have' and not to what I 'have not’;
I can feel the joy...the peace that 
are
needed in my life.

~ Glori Gage

Glori ~ May 1, 2011 

 

God, our Father, walk through my house and
take away all my worries and illnesses and please
watch over and heal my family in Jesus name,
Amen.

LM ~ April 4, 2011

 

Life is too short to wake up with regrets.
 So love the people who treat you right.
 Forget about the ones who don't.
Believe everything happens for a reason.
If you get a second chance, grab it with both hands.
If it changes your life, let it.
Nobody said life would be easy,
they just promised it would be worth it.

Anne A ~ April 4, 2011

 

The value of life lies not in the length of days,
but in the 
use we make of them.

Margaret L ~ April 4, 2011

 

I have in my hands two boxes,
which God gave me to hold.
He said, “Put all your sorrows in the black box,
and all your joys in the gold.”
 

I heeded his words, and in the two boxes,
both my joys and sorrows I stored,
but though the gold became heavier each day,
the black was light as before…
 

With curiosity, I opened the black,
I wanted to find out why,
and I saw, in the base of the box, a hole,
which my sorrows had fallen out by.
 

I showed the hole to God, and mused,
“I wonder where my sorrows could be!”
He smiled a gentle smile and said,
“My child, they’re all here with me”
 

I asked God, why He gave me the boxes,
why the gold and the black with the hole?
“My child, the gold is for you to count your blessings,
the black is for you to let go.”

~ God’s Two Boxes

Marilee M ~ April 4, 2011

  

On Saturday, February 13, 2011, our beloved Butch passed away in my arms after
suffering a huge stroke which left him paralyzed and in pain. He was just one month
shy of his 14th birthday. He brought us untold joy and we hope we did the same for him.
He was my very best friend and confidant who always let me ramble on and on and never
grew weary of my voice. He was my walking and hiking partner as we roamed the ravine,
woods 
and beach through winter, spring, summer and fall enjoying every sniff of it. He went
everywhere with me. He was my solace when I fell ill – never saying a word, just resting
beside me with his paw on me to show how much he cared. He was my playmate, who
loved to play hide & seek and the absolute delight on his face on my being “found” was
priceless. He made me laugh and laugh. His spontaneous bursting into song when his
favourite tunes came on the radio – Dylan, Donovan, Led Zepplin, the Who – he especially
loved anything with a harmonica - he was just a rock and roll kinda guy. He was kind, patient
and gentle with little dogs, who loved him to bits. His total love and devotion to family and
friends brought me so much joy and pride each and every day. These are just a 
miniscule

sampling of our boy – there are millions we have in my heart to remember him by. Words
cannot convey what we feel, but I know that anyone who has ever loved and lost an animal
will understand. He was our special boy and we will cherish him forever.

~ Tribute to Butch

L Maslow ~ April 3, 2011

 

Spend some time alone every day.”

~ Dalai Lama

GM ~ April 3, 2011 

 

 

I've learned that you shouldn't go through life with a catcher’s
mitt on both hands; you need to be able to throw some things back....”

~ Maya Angelou

 

DV ~ April 2, 2011

 

Look to the blessings around you...for there are many!

Anonymous ~ April 2, 2011 

A day is full of sunshine,
when the heart is full of song.

Glori ~ April 1, 2011 

 

God grant me the serenity
To accept the things I cannot change,
Courage to change the things I can,
And the wisdom to know the difference.

~ The Serenity Prayer

Glori ~ March 30, 2011

 

Today I pray for the wisdom to build a better tomorrow
on the mistakes and experiences of yesterday.

Anonymous ~ March 30, 2011

 

Learn from yesterday,
live for today,
hope for tomorrow.

ML ~ March 30, 2011

 

A loving atmosphere in your home is the foundation for your life.

~ Dalai Lama

LM ~ March 29, 2011

 

May you always have work for your hands to do
May your pockets hold always a coin or two
May the sun shine 
bright on your windowpane
May the rainbow be certain to follow each rain
May the hand of a friend always be near you
And may God fill your heart with gladness to cheer you


~ Irish Blessing

KF ~ March 28, 2011

 

Enjoy the beauty of the smallest things around you.

Margaret ~ March 28, 2011 

Light begets light,
for what you send out to the universe is returned to you.
Positive energy begets positive energy.  Joy begets joy.
Love begets love.

Anonymous ~ March 28, 2011

 

May today be all you need it to be.  May the peace of God and the
freshness of the Holy Spirit rest in your thoughts, rule in your dreams tonight,
 and conquer all your fears.  May God manifest itself today in ways you have never experienced.
May your joys 
be fulfilled, your dreams be closer, and your prayers be answered.
I pray that faith enters a new height for you; I pray that your territory is enlarged.
I pray for peace, healing, health, happiness, prosperity, joy, true and undying love for God.

"The divine promise of Soul is that every problem contains a solution."

 ~ Harold Klemp

LM ~ March 28, 2011

 

Father God,
Bless my friend in whatever it is that you know that he or she may be needing this day!
May their life be full of your peace, prosperity, and power as they seek to have a closer relationship with You.

Amen

Anonymous ~ March 28, 2011

 

I remember one treasured moment with my Oma, when we were together
at church in our little town of Leibnitz, Austria.  I was just 16 and my Oma was
56 years old, but she was old at this age for she had lost her husband
in the war and cared for and loved 5 children.  She wore a kerchief on her head
and a black apron that was worn only for church on Sunday.  I felt that she was
so very small beside me as we walked together to church.  While seated in the
church pew, her arm was wrapped in mine; I was overcome with such an
enormous feeling of love that I thought my heart would burst.  It felt like an angel
had touched and filled my heart.  For the first time in my life I thought my heart
would break for the love that I felt for my cherished Oma.

I loved my Oma with my whole heart
and she was the greatest blessing in my life.

Burgi Wuest ~ March 27, 2011

 

I've learned that people will forget what you said,
people will forget what you did, but people will
never forget how you made them feel.”

~ Maya Angelou

DV ~ March 24, 2011 

It is a wonderful day...the snow is falling and I am warm and content inside.
Loving my life, for I truly feel that I am where I am meant to be at this moment in time,
and looking 
to all the blessings that surround me.

Irene ~ March 23, 2011

 

“This beautiful prayer always brings me great comfort,
peace and inspiration...a true blessing in my life “ ~

May today there be peace within.
May you trust that you are exactly where you are meant to be.
May you not forget the infinite possibilities that are born of faith
in yourself and others.
May you use the gifts that you have received, and pass on
the love that has been given to you.
May you be content with yourself just the way you are.
Let this knowledge settle into your bones, and allow your soul
the freedom to sing, dance, and love.
It is there for each and every one of us.

~ St. Teresa's Prayer

Glori ~ March 20, 2011 

Remember the best relationship is one in which
your love for each other exceeds your need for each other.

~ Dalai Lama

LM ~ December 31, 2010

 

Dear God,
The person reading this is beautiful, classy, and strong and I love them.
Help them to live their life to the fullest.
 Please promote them and cause them to excel above their expectations.
Help them shine in the darkest places where it is impossible to love.
Protect them at all times, lift them up when they need you the most.
And let them know when they walk with you, they are always safe.

Margaret ~ October 6, 2010

 

One evening an old man told his grandson about a battle that goes on inside people.
He said, “My son, the battle is between 'two wolves' inside us all.  One is Evil.  It is
anger, envy, jealousy, sorrow, regret, greed, arrogance, self-pity, guilt, resentment,
inferiority, lies, false pride, superiority, and ego.  The other is Good.  It is joy, peace
love, hope, serenity, humility, kindness, benevolence, empathy, generosity, truth,
 compassion and faith.”  The grandson thought about it for a minute and then asked
his grandfather, “Which wolf wins?”...The old Cherokee simply replied,
“The one you feed.”

Cathy E ~ September 28, 2010

 

The act of compassion begins with full attention.
 
~ Daniel Golemen

Kim ~ September 20, 2010

 

Dear God,
Will you please take care of my dog?  She died 
yesterday
 and is with you in heaven. I miss her very much.  I am happy
that you let me have her as my dog even though she got sick.
I hope you will play with her. She likes to play with balls and to swim.
I am sending a picture of her so when you see her
you will know that she is my dog.

 ~ Love Meredith (4 years old)

Dear Meredith,
Abbey arrived safely in heaven.
Having the picture was a big help.  I recognized Abbey right away
Abbey isn’t sick anymore.  Her spirit is here with me just like it 
stays
 in your heart. Abbey loved being your dog.  Since we don’t need our
bodies in heaven I don’t have any pockets to keep your picture in, so
I am sending it back to you in this little book for you to keep and have
something to remember Abbey by.  Thank you for the beautiful 
letter
 and thank your mother for helping you to write it and sending it to me.
What a wonderful mother you have. I picked her especially for you.
I send my blessings every day and remember that I love you very much.
By the way, I’m easy to find, I am wherever there is love.

~ Love God

Jeanette K ~ September 9, 2010

 

Take into account that great love and great achievements
involve great risk…just live your Dream!

~ Dalai Lama

LM ~ July 8, 2010

 

Take time to laugh, it is the music of the soul.
Take time to be friendly, It is the road to happiness.

ML ~ January 20, 2010

 

Be always at war with your vices, at peace with your neighbors,
and let each new year find you a better man”... or woman."

~ Benjamin Franklin

Brian F ~ January 8, 2010

 

I was thinking...I could die today, tomorrow or next week, and
I wondered if I had any wounds needing to be healed, friendships
that needed rekindling or three words needing to be said.

Let every one of your friends know you love them.  Even if you think
they don't love you back, you would be amazed at what those
three little words…I love you and a smile can do.
Live today because tomorrow is not promised.

KF ~ January 3, 2010

 

 

I’ve learned that no matter what happens, or how bad it seems today,
life goes on, and it will be better tomorrow.

~ Maya Angelou

Deb ~ January 2,  2010

 

Watch a sunrise at least once each year.

 Robin ~ January 1, 2010