Smiling with Possessions

Smiling- Do you smile?  Do you constantly smile or are you someone who hardly ever smiles?  Maybe you are one that has to be told a joke or something funny has to happen.  One thing that I have learned over the past year is a smile is the key to relationships, friendships and even meeting people.  Lynn ALWAYS had a smile for everyone.  It didn't matter if she was having a  great day, a good day or a horrific day, there was always a smile to be had!  Even in the midst of everything that she was dealing with, it would come through for sure.  I have been really aware of speaking to people and smiling when I see them in the morning at work whether it's a patient, family member or co-worker.  Just the eye contact and realizing that someone cares enough to smile and say Good Morning is a game changer for a lot of people!  SMILE!!!!  It just might change your day.

Possessions are not that important.  Yes, I just said that!  In this day and time I feel that I am probably in the minority on that statement.  Don't get me wrong,   I love a new outfit.  I love a new car.  I like new things. Really I do.  Are they THAT important?????  No, not exactly!!!!  This past week I put away all of my summer clothing.  I was shocked at all of the summer dresses and outfits that I never wore this past summer.  I had enough to fill up a huge Space Bag and then part of another.  Part of me was feeling like I was hording it!  I pulled out all of my sweaters and leggings and stuff and was just amazed at what I had.  Do I need more clothing?  No not really!  I have been to India 2 times and Nepal 1 time.  I've also been to Ukraine 2 times.  When you go and you see what they have and count as their possessions it is really hard to come home and not want to simplify your life.  You take account of what you have and what you really need!  I remember the first time that I came home from India.  I felt like I needed to sell everything I owned.  It was a difficult transition back to being in the US.  We take is so for granted that we have closets full of clothes and then we complain that we don't have anything to wear.  I then have to consider the women that I met.  They own 2 sari's .  The first they will wear and the other they swap out with and that is all!!!!!!!  If they happen to have some extra money, you may find one that has a special one for those special occasions like weddings, parties, or funerals.  What if we narrowed our closet down to 3 outfits.  How would you do????

All of this being said- ,my point is this-------Your SMILE is something that can change you, your acquaintances, and your family.  I want people to remember that about me!  Secondly- You can't take your possessions with you!  Yes, they are nice but then what?  Share what you have! Share your smile! It could change YOU!!!  Be thankful for what you have! Be thankful for your smile!


Blessing,
Coach Pam
Phil 4:13