Love, Service, Joy and Boldness

Mother Teresa:

"It is not how much we do, but how much love we put into what we do."

It's the simple things we do as we go about daily life; like choosing fruits and vegetables at the market, preparing a meal, tending the garden, listening to a loved one, writing a letter, reading to a child, walking the dog, silently blessing others; the children in our classroom, our co-workers, the customer in our store, the drivers on the road with us. Love has a rippling effect.  

Albert Schweitzer:

"I don't know what your destiny will be, but one thing I do know; the only ones among you who will be really happy are those who have sought and found how to serve."

Serving others might mean volunteering in our local community. There is so much need and so many ways to volunteer; from working in a soup kitchen, to tutoring kids in reading. This can bring such great joy to our hearts and be a wonderful way to meet new friends. I think it's important to keep in mind that serving others can begin at home. Generously sharing our time and talents with parents and siblings, relatives and friends. Asking how we can help. Paying attention to their needs and finding ways to serve those closest to us. It could be as simple as listening, offering a ride, cooking, washing dishes, picking up groceries, sharing a book, bringing flowers, playing a game, holding a hand, sharing a meal, extending an invitation to do something you know they'd enjoy...  

"I slept and dreamt that life was joy. I awoke and saw that life was service. I acted and behold, service was joy." - Rabindranath Tagore

Goethe:

"Whatever you can do, or dream you can, begin it. Boldness has genius and power and magic in it." 

I had a copy of this on my bulletin board when I was in college. Sometimes it just takes a leap of faith. Taking that extra step. What can you do? What do you dream of doing? Is it a book you want to write? Quitting your job? Going back to school? Learning an instrument? Becoming fluent in another language? A trip you've always dreamed of? Trying your hand at water color or photography or dance? Starting your own business? Moving to a new town? Why not begin it? 

      Boldness has genius and power and magic in it!!