The Important Things

With each day, week, month, and year that passes, I find my mind more and more fixed on the important things.
I learned a lot so far on this journey we call life, and I know there are a million more things I need to learn, but I'm ready for the lessons because each one will be for my good. I know they will.
Over the years I have learned:

Not to judge. You never know what is going on in the lives of others.

To forgive. How can I expect to be forgiven of others if I choose to hold on to things and not forgive, myself?

To love unconditionally. God loves me and He asks me to do the same in return.

Be positive. It takes so much more energy to be negative.

Look for the good. In a world that is as troubled as ours has become, this can be a hard thing to do, but it can be done.

Be grateful. No matter what I am going through, I try to remind myself that things can always be worse.

A little over a week ago I had the opportunity to speak to a group of women who are overcoming drug addiction, and it was one of the most meaningful things I have ever been privileged to do. What a marvelous opportunity that was! What an amazing group of women! They varied in ages and ethnic background, but I understood them, because I was once where they are, and though they have all been through many things and I can't possibly understand how they feel personally, I can definitely relate and empathize. Visiting with these beautiful women helped to renew my surety that it is never too late to change, and with God's help, we can overcome anything. It also strengthened my conviction that we are here to live the best we can and be happy. We don't judge one another, we help one another.

This life is so short. I see that now more than I ever could before, and eternal things are ringing more true. I guess that's what comes with hitting the middle age years. The world is moving at a faster pace. I see my children growing up and moving on before I can blink. I see a few more lines around my eyes when I smile and a few more gray hairs highlighting the black. But you know what? It's okay. This is the way things are supposed to be. And I wouldn't change any of it.
I love this life that God has given me. I hope you can see the good in yours as well, and I hope we can all remember to fix our minds on the important things.

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