Dec. 31, 2013 Final Thoughts#RAK

To practice five things under all circumstances constitutes perfect virtue; these five are gravity, generosity of soul, sincerity, earnestness, and kindness.
Confucius
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To practice five things under all circumstances constitutes perfect virtue; these five are gravity, generosity of soul, sincerity, earnestness, and kindness.
Confucius
Read more at http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/keywords/kindness.html#Yhz6T4EzEmOVoOGU.99

 One year ago I made a promise to perform an act of kindness per day and share it with the world in a blog. Tonight, 2013 draws to a close  and so will end this journal. It has been an enlightening, gratifying experience which has shown me that there are always opportunities to reach out to someone with a small thoughtful gesture. Family, friends, colleagues, neighbors, students, strangers, animals, humanitarian groups, the list goes on and on - I have tried to make a difference in some way to show that kindness is contagious, and each one of us has the potential for bringing joy to a fellow human being or a furry friend. What I have accomplished is nothing extraordinary; everyone can show compassion and benevolence. One must remember that all of us have the power to make someone happy and the responsibility to look for these moments. So, today as I close this final post, my act of kindness is the following quotes that you may  reflect and share. I will continue to perform good deeds every day and encourage you to do the same. We are all on this planet together; let's watch one kind action lead to another. Have a blessed 2014, my friends.

"To practice five things under all circumstances constitutes perfect virtue; these five are gravity, generosity of soul, sincerity, earnestness, and kindness."
Confucius

" A tree is known by its fruits; a man by his deeds. A good deed is never lost; he who sows courtesy reaps friendship and he who plants kindness gathers love.
St. Basil

" No act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted."
Aesop

There is no need for temples, no need for complicated philosophies. My brain and my heart are my temples; my philosophy is kindness.
Dalai Lama
Read more at http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/keywords/kindness.html#wU06aVkd7hwXrozi.99

A tree is known by its fruit; a man by his deeds. A good deed is never lost; he who sows courtesy reaps friendship, and he who plants kindness gathers love.

Read more at http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/keywords/kindness.html#3LrSrcrHKXm8Kfsx.99

A tree is known by its fruit; a man by his deeds. A good deed is never lost; he who sows courtesy reaps friendship, and he who plants kindness gathers love.
Saint Basil
Read more at http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/keywords/kindness.html#3LrSrcrHKXm8Kfsx.99

A tree is known by its fruit; a man by his deeds. A good deed is never lost; he who sows courtesy reaps friendship, and he who plants kindness gathers love.
Saint Basil
Read more at http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/keywords/kindness.html#3LrSrcrHKXm8Kfsx.99

A tree is known by its fruit; a man by his deeds. A good deed is never lost; he who sows courtesy reaps friendship, and he who plants kindness gathers love.
Saint Basil
Read more at http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/keywords/kindness.html#3LrSrcrHKXm8Kfsx.99

Dec. 28-30, 2013 The Value of Life

The Old North Church, Boston

I spent the last three days in Boston where I didn't have an opportunity to write this blog; however, I continued my random acts of kindness during my visit. I left quarters in several vending machines at a Thruway rest area; I made donations at all the historic sites we toured, and finally I placed a small gift on the table of our hosts to thank them for their hospitality. But all these acts are insignificant in light of the message that I want and need to express. Last night our community lost a young man in an accident, and in this area where most everyone knows one another, this is a loss that ripples through the families. Our prayers go out to all his friends and relatives. Please take the time every day to tell those you love how much they mean to you. Don't take life for granted; appreciate every moment you have with each other.

Dec. 27, 2013 Happy Birthday, Little Brother

When you grow up in a family of five children, and you are the youngest, and your birthday is two days after Christmas, your special day might get overlooked from year to year. That is unless you are the cute, nice, sweet one whom everyone dotes on, of course. That would be my youngest brother whose birthday is today. Although I am not able to see him often,  we keep in touch through photos and email. I sent him a gift today through Facebook for all the world to see! Happy Birthday, little brother. Hope to get together in 2014!

Dec. 26, 2013 #Buying#Local

There are so many options when it comes to buying anything these days. The ease of Internet shopping makes it very attractive to the consumer, and, I admit, it is often preferable to avoid the crowds and travel concerns surrounding a visit to the stores by just clicking the mouse a few times. Voila! Your purchase is on its way. Today, however, we headed to a local ski shop to check out some boots. From the minute we walked through the door, we were welcomed and provided with information by the friendly employees. I made sure to tell the owner how impressed I was with her staff, and complimented her on her business. She thanked us for the support . Remember to shop at these community enterprises. Their success depends on our patronage.

Dec. 25, 2013 #Christmas#Traditions

Traditional Tree

Family traditions are one of the most important parts of holiday celebrations. I was fortunate this year that two of my three children were able to be home for Christmas, and we could carry on the traditions we have developed over the years. The fence is around the tree; the stuffed animals sit in front of it; the manger is set up on the side table, and the stockings are hanging from their decorative metal hooks. I was excited to continue the rituals for another year. There will be times in the future when it may not be possible, and then we will create some new methods of celebrating these family times together. But for now, I am content to be surrounded by my loved ones and the customs we hold dear. Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to all.

Dec. 24, 2013 Expressing Gratitude

Christmas Eve

I believe that many of us are grateful for a multitude of things, but we often forget to express it or perhaps we think that those around us are aware of our appreciation without us telling them. It never hurts to let people know that we are thankful for their presence in our lives. My goal for this day was to recognize a few individuals for their positive impact on me. I posted and shared a thank you to one of the journalists for her wonderful Christmas story in this morning's paper. I delivered several bottles of wine to friends in the village. I was able to give and receive warm hugs and greetings as I saw former students and friends throughout the day. And although I can not tell him in person, I would be remiss if I didn't mention my gratitude to my father who was born on this day in 1928; you taught me so much, and for that I am indebted.

Dec. 23, 2013 Holding the Door

I believe that basic rules of politeness require a person entering a door to hold it open for those closely following behind. It simply seems a courteous thing to do. Today I had to go to the mall for some last minute shopping as did thousands of other people. We all looked slightly frantic; although, there still remains tomorrow for the true procrastinators. As I entered the building, I saw three women who were approaching the exit, so I held the door for them . What a pleasant exchange of thank you and Merry Christmas, I got. They were so grateful for this small gesture. Later, when I was leaving, I again held the door for a woman with a cane, and she stopped to tell me what a nice thing I had done by waiting for her to slowly enter the store. I am amazed that this little action brought such smiles and holiday wishes. It really doesn't take much to brighten someone's day.