Surrounded by Family

Last night I attended solo, an annual party, that Edgar and I had always thoroughly enjoyed, ever since we began dating.  I initially intended to decline, but decided to honor our happy times by going.   I'd planned to sit with dear cousins from Edgar's Dad's side of the family, with whom he and I often enjoyed this event.  As fate would dictate, I also had the opportunity to join another set of cousins, from Edgar's Mom's side of the family.  Being flanked by family signaled to me once again that celebrating happy memories is a healthy way to move forward.

Look at Who?

This week has provided the opportunity for me to be a part of two special luncheons honoring most deserving women and men.  It's always energizing to me, to celebrate the accomplishments of high achievers.  Of the many awards presented during these two very different events, one presentation was distinctively different than all others.  This very articulate, poised presenter did a lovely job of making the honoree shine.  But by also drawing significant attention inward to the credentials of the presenter, generated the feeling of "look at the honoree, but don't forget to look at me".  This most gracious honoree, not only made the presenter feel special, but also heaped obviously heartfelt appreciation and praise on so many others who were part of the honoree's success.  The "look at you" recipient garnered the respect that the "look at me" presenter was obviously craving.

In this case there was a significant contrast between the one receiving and presenting the award.  Naturally, the "look at you" recipient was far more favorably accepted than the "look at me" presenter. 

When we're honoring another, the entire focus is most appropriately on the honoree.  When we take time to selflessly honor another, the reflected praise from the recipient has far more impact than any attempts at misplaced, self-generated acknowledgement. 

Being Nominated is Winning

A friend made my day last week, when she told me that she wanted to nominate me for an award.  Regardless of the outcome of the nomination, she made me feel like a winner because she saw me as deserving of this recognition.  Each time we nominate a deserving candidate, we have bestowed valuable recognition to the recipient.  Winning is great, but being considered a winner by someone you respect is pretty awesome too.

Some Gave All...

We often take for granted the many freedoms we enjoy.  When someone in our circle dies protecting our freedom, we are vividly reminded that we owe incalculable debt, appreciation and honor to all of our soldiers and their loved ones who have bravely fought and continue to lay down their lives to protect the freedoms we hold dear.

Cpl. Chris Yauch is a fallen soldier who has been a part of my circle since his birth.  I am enormously grateful that he was willing, but incredibly sad that Chris had to give all to protect our freedom.

Chris, his family and I grew up in an amazing town in north central Arkansas - Batesville.  I've never been more proud of a community honoring the ultimate sacrifice of a local hero.

 http://www.slide.com/r/CDk1BR3-5z-nk9D2NSYECFHLNmwNiJt-?emt=1067381811229489416

Love

 I realize each day that I am incredibly blessed.  Not only do I have the promise of eternal life - I have the love of a birth family, nuclear family, extended family, friends, neighbors, colleagues and fellow volunteers.

Happy Valentine's Day to Each of You Who Positively Impact My Life!

Promises

When I was nine, I told my maternal grandfather that when I had a daughter I was going to name her Julia, in memory of his mother, a great-grandmother I never knew.

As a child, it never occurred to me that my husband would have opinions about this important matter. When I proposed this name, Edgar was initially unreceptive to the idea. Though my grandfather probably would not have remembered that long ago declaration, I did.

Happily, we ultimately agreed and I had the joy of introducing precious Julia to my wonderful grandfather - delivering on a promise made so many years earlier.