Simple Pleasures

I always find it ironic that the most joyful time of the year ends up leaving people depressed and stressed out! I realize the we all face crisis in our lives which seem to be magnified during this time of year. One thing that I've found helps me is indulging in simple pleasures: A cup of coffee, reading a book, calling a friend, etc. As you travel on your journey take time to be good to yourself!

Charlie Brown

One of my greatest hero's comes in the form a comic strip: "Peanuts" which was created by Charles M. Schulz. Charlie Brown (one of the characters) has his share of problems, but he is always persistent, loyal and a friend to all. He is loyal to his friends, show perserverence in whatever he does and tries to be a friend to all. When your jouney is rough and rocky, you can always turn to Charlie Brown!

The Kindness Of Strangers!

I have heard and read a lot of stories relating to the kindness of strangers. Recently, my mom and I were having coffee at a local coffee/gift shop. We were sharing about the challenges we were facing, when a lady (I'm guessing in her mid-twenties) asked if she could pray for us. We all prayed and then went our seperate ways. Be open to the kindness of strangers, or maybe be the stranger who shows kindness to another!

Fortune Cookie

I have always wondered how they make fortune cookies. How do they get that little piece of paper with an insightful messsage inside? Who comes up with those messages? Here is my fortune cookie message for you: Life is about making some things happen, not wating for something to happen! So on your journey go make some things happen!

Don't Worry, Be Happy!

As I drink my coffee and watch the sunrise, I know it will be a great day! Even though my journey has taken me into a valley soon I will be climbing the mountain! Remember Bobby McFerrin's song "Don't Worry, Be Happy?". It was a song which became popular when the movie "Cocktail" came out. I can't worry and be happy at the same time. You may recognize me: I'm the one with a smile on my face and a song in my heart! Don't Worry, Be Happy!

Tin Man

Just like the Tin Man , I think we need to have friends and family to encourage us and show us that we have "heart" and other qualities that make us who we are. It wasn't the Tin Woodsman's job of cutting down trees that totally fulfilled his life. It was taking a journey with friends who showed him that he had the very thing he was looking for: HEART.

I hope this will be a journey to encourage and inspire you on your yellow brick road!