Showing Appreciation Where It Is Due !

As we go through life it is easy to forget those in our lives that have been there for us or encouraged us to go the extra mile. We so often take these people for granted and overlook the guidance and time they have given to us.


It is very easy for me, to be in the moment and not even realize that the suggestion from someone, in regards to work or the words that are ringing in my ears that give me that extra push to keep my head in a workout, are there because someone cares enough to give of themselves and could simply not even be there.


The word appreciation means to be thankful and express admiration, approval, or gratitude. It also means to grow or appreciate in value. As we appreciate life, we see the value of life and of those in our lives.


Why is it that we have a hard time voicing or showing our appreciation to those in our lives that have done so much to help us as an individual—both personally and professionally?


Mainly, we do not learn to appreciate until what we have is threatened or taken away from us—until we fear what we have to lose, we never truly see what we have. I am not saying that fear is a good thing, but in this case it does give us a different perspective—a positive perspective.


There are lessons well taught by learning the value of appreciation. Meaning learning to let things flow through—not limiting claims on them for satisfaction—as we gain valuable insight from someone. Appreciation is taking time, which is not forced to reciprocate, in some manner to the person who has given us guidance and time—don't be a dead sea where things flow in and never flow out.


Think for a minute about someone or those in your life that you have taken for granted—ignored their guidance and time. What is keeping you from picking up the phone or sending an e-mail to let them know how much they are appreciated.


Do it today!

The Quietness Of The Day

The Quietness Of The Day
The day starts, as the body naturally wakes up from its restful sleep, and I so looked forward to my quiet time alone with God in the dark silences of the morning—blanket on my lap, Bible, devotionals, pen, and journal ready at my fingertips. I anticipate this time knowing that my day requires this beginning, more so than my run or workout that follows.

At times the quietness of the day can very easily slip away for things that seem more important and of greater value, but in reality the quietness of the day is a gift that we so effortlessly let fall away.

[We] can neither make, nor retain, one moment of time; it all comes to [us] by pure gift... -C.S.Lewis

In the quietness of the morning it is a time to communicate with God one on one with no distractions, reflect on the day ahead, and gain greater awareness of who we are and the direction in which God is leading us.

I know that we all have good intentions, to take time out of our days to spend in quietness and it doesn't have to be in the early morning darkness, but whenever it is conducive of what works best for each individual. Spending time in the quietness of the day is just that a gift, which we need not reject or take it for granted. Instead we should welcome the moment and treasure it like we do a priceless gift.