Friday Challenge

Good morning! Yesterday, I was out and about, and someone gave me a compliment about my son. Now for me, there are few things that make me beam with pride like I do when someone shows kindness to my son. Whether they know it or not, complimenting him is paying me the highest compliment I could receive. For today's challenge, I want you to give someone a genuine compliment. This may seem really easy, but I'm not talking about "nice shoes" here, people. Give this some thought. Think about how this person uses his/her time. What do they work really hard at accomplishing? Perhaps this individual keeps falling short of their goal, but they don't throw in the towel. Tell them that you really admire their dedication to their goal and that their dedication is very inspiring to you. Let them know that you notice and see them. The important thing is to be genuine! Don't make up anything! It's truly amazing how many people feel unnoticed and unappreciated. When someone does this for me, it gives me such a boost in confidence that I find myself being kinder and more energetic. Kindness is contagious! Be Kind, Candice

Digital Companion

I remember, only a few years ago, when I didn't have texting or internet on my phone. It was NOT that long ago. I vowed when I got an iPhone that I would not be one of "those" people who always had their phones in their hands and couldn't go anywhere without it. Here we are in 2014 and my phone is right next to me. While my phone usage has definitely increased since I got this phone a few years back, I have made an honest effort to not be addicted to my technology in place of my son. In 15 years from now, the phones will be smaller, faster, and who knows what else, but I will never have my son, here, in this very moment again. My pastor said something that really struck a chord with me. He said,"Be here now." Be present where you are and with whom you're spending time. I never think it's fair to be somewhere physically with someone, but to know that their mind is entangled within the mysterious phone conversation they are having across the table. I, and others, have often said that everything seems so different these days than it used to. I think the difference is our absence of mind in the moment. We're so worried about posting a status, uploading pictures, shopping, games, etc. that we miss our very own lives. Don't be so busy trying to have a life that you miss the one you're living. Tonight, maybe instead of having your constant digital companion next to you at the dinner table, leave it in the bedroom during dinner--it will be there when you're finished eating (I promise). Have a "phone free evening" with your family and...be here now.