Sometimes I look into the mirror and wonder "what happened?" I look tired, or older or my hair is . . .(well, you know how hair can be first thing in the morning, ) or I think to myself, "gray hair and acne just doesn't seem to go together." Ever have any days like that?

Of course, we know this is not what matters - not really. What matters is what's on the inside and what we do with what we have. Right?

And, let's face it there are a lot of people less fortunate than you or me. Even with unstable (or no) jobs, even with all that makes us wonder about our own situations - insurance, health, jobs, bills, etc. - there are some homeless people that don't even have cars to sleep in; there are some hungry people that don't even have access to water that won't make their kids sick.

Okay, I was preaching, I'll stop. We all know some things we can do to feel better about ourselves and they don't involve chocolate or a credit card. But maybe a reminder wouldn't hurt.

• Count your blessings, literally. Write a list. Then think of a gift to give someone else that relates to each item and contributes to that person's well-being. Example: If your blessings include good health and a comfortable house, your gifts might include volunteering at the hospital or writing a check to a charity that helps people whose homes were destroyed in a flood.
• When you catch yourself using a lot of "I, me or mine" words,, switch to "you" & "yours". 'Ask questions about other people's experiences or opinions instead of describing your own . . . listen attentively for a least 2 minutes without interjecting your own story. (You might be surprised how long 2 minutes can seem!)
• Nurture in yourself a consciousness of abundance - - a belief that you have enough to share. To reinforce this attitude, ask yourself every day, "What small thing can I do today to bring happiness or comfort to someone else?" "That might be collecting your change for the noisy can or some other ministry or service, writing a supportive e-mail to a friend, compliment someone on a job well done, or donating something from your garage or closet (before it is all worn out) - you won't miss it and someone else may cherish it. (adapt. Judy Kuriansky)

Jayneann

October 2010 letter to members and friends of the United Methodist Church