Signs of Change

How are you doing at envisioning abundance in the world? Have you set aside a few minutes each day to imagine peace and prosperity in all parts of the world? I have been doing this, and love the feeling I get as I can see it happening.

I have also been looking at how I can change small things right here at home. This means looking at everything as a place where change can happen. This has been a challenge as I have eight grandchildren who think, as my 4 1/2 year old granddaughter tells me, "You're the best Grandma in the whole world." In the past, part of getting this high of a rating was that I can be counted on for a hot cup of cocoa, a trip to the beach, a warm hug anytime, and plenty of presents under the tree.

This year, I am working to incorporate helping others into this equation. I have always been outspoken about there being enough for everyone. Towards that end, more of my sharing this year has been in the form of helping others, and spending less on things that will not be sustainable as a toy or gift. I recently wrote about this in my newsletter and I have gotten some emails from others who not only feel the same way, but are opening their thoughts and hearts to others. Here are some examples of what I am hearing:

"In that vein, I wanted to tell you that this year, more than most, I have bought food, toys and clothes for the needy folks around here. My office has always done this, but this year, probably due to the precarious economic picture, I have felt more compelled than ever. Since contributing to our Thanksgiving dinner box at work, I have had the pure pleasure of shopping for kids of all ages. Never having had kids myself, I tend to just release my inner child and let her guide me. Believe me when I tell you that she is never far away--I'll always be a kid! :) When I walk out of that store, I almost feel high. Isn't that wonderful?

We have a local woman whose own personal history has caused her to go beyond the call of duty when it comes to charity. So much that she was one of 5 women invited to our State Capitol by Maria Shriver to be recognized for her unrelenting spirit of giving to others. When she is not literally patrolling the streets, she volunteers in a grade school library. Anyway, she recently put the call out to this community for blankets and sleeping bags. Turns out, some of the students she sees are homeless and literally living in the brush around town with their families. She wants them to at least be warm out there.

All that said, here is a woman who embodies the very point of your commentary. When you see this woman, joy emanates from her. She positively glows. There ARE angels among us! "

And this:

"I loved your newsletter this month, thanks for sharing. We have embraced gratitude this year in every form and it's made such an impact on our emotional health. Giving feels so good and it's great to know that we're able to help others. "

Thank you all for help this year!! You are doing more than you can imagine to bring change in the world.

Happy Holidays!

Marquita