Good Thoughts

With so many horrible things swirling in the air, it’s hard not to get discouraged or disgusted or discombobulated or a lot of other dis- words. I thought this week, I’d try to focus on good things that happened this past week.

A little girl waved and smiled at me the other day. She was a cute thing, and I appreciated her friendliness.

A great clerk checked me out at the grocery store. He was funny and cheerful which made me feel good.

People smiled at me this past week when I talked to them about how to build a world in their writing. They thanked me afterwards, and some sent me emails saying they really appreciated what I said. It made all the work putting together the presentation worthwhile, and made me feel like I’d helped others.

I saw an 8-year-old girl’s eyes light up when she saw that her quilt had won first place at the quilt show. She let out a squeal of delight, soon followed by the same sounds from her mother and grandmother. She had her picture taken in front of the quilt her grandmother helped her make. It warmed my heart to see that skills are being passed from one generation to another.

I got up this morning and had electricity and potable water close at hand. My house keeps me warm and dry, and I had food in the kitchen. I have a cell phone that keeps me in touch with people I love. I have good, quiet neighbors in our nice neighborhood. The police come through occasionally to make sure we’re all safe and sound.

I have friends and family all over the place that I keep in touch with. I had lunch with a couple of friends which always brings a smile to my face. I love to rejoice with my friends when they’re happy, and I cry with them when they’re sad. I may not see them very often, but that doesn’t mean I don’t think about them or pray for them. Technology allows us to be close even though there’s many miles between us.

The lesson in all this is to look for the good around you. Good people are everywhere. They need your smiles as much as you need theirs. Share some kindness and joy. People need it to ward off all the bad stuff. Feel free to share your good things in the comments.