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May 2010
Memorial Day/May Recap
Tools That Can Change Your Life:
It is still very much May, even though it’s the last day, so I am not late with my monthly blog. As I listened this morning to Taps being played at Arlington Cemetery, observed on tv a few ceremonies, and felt tears well up in my eyes as four jets flew overhead today at about noon, I was inclined to include some thoughts about Memorial Day in this monthly message. There are many who believe that the meaning and spirit of the day has diminished as a result of Congress declaring it a three-day weekend in 1971. These same folks also see a lack of true meaning of this day, as many pay tribute to any and all who have died, rather than only those fallen in service to our country. Interesting research I’ve discovered. I also learned that Memorial Day was originally called Decoration Day, and was proclaimed official in 1868--a single day, (not a week-end), May 30, of remembrance for those who have died offering service to their country, and to honor their lives. The VFW stated in a 2002 address, "Changing the date merely to create three-day weekends has undermined the very meaning of the day. No doubt, this has contributed greatly to the general public's nonchalant observance of Memorial Day." There are many exceptions of course as parades and rituals are held in various locations. What is your attitude about this subject? Do you take some time to recognize the day for its true meaning, or as the first long weekend of summer fun? Or both? For me, I honor those whose lives were snuffed out by war along with feeling compassion for the families who have endured such deep loss as well. U.S. soldier Bowe Bergdahl has been imprisoned in Afghanistan since July 2, 2009. He is a resident of our little mountain community and the yellow ribbons on the trees and front doors of many businesses throughout town remind me of the heartache his parents experience on a daily basis. I can’t even imagine what they must go through every day. The aftermath of war leaves a long trail of devastation.
On a lighter note, periodically I feel inclined to watch Oprah and when I do, it’s normally something fascinating, as was the case last week when she had Peter Walsh on her show as a guest, along with a family of four whose lives he impacted dramatically. Peter is a Life Organization Consultant and author of It’s All Too Much. When you Google his name you will find on his website a DVD that will introduce you to a new way of living along with ten tips to keep your house clutter-free, such as: conquer your clutter room by room, get rid of one item when you buy something similar, and teach your kids how to sort. “The first step has nothing to do with the clutter,” says the master. A particularly interesting aspect of this show and working with this family was his insistence that for one week, they refrain from computer, cell phones, television and microwave usage—no text messaging either. He referred to these as means of distraction that keeps the family from connecting with each other and advocates preparing and eating healthy meals together. I encourage you to visit his site and to use this message as a wake-up call to examine and evaluate:
- the degree of clutter in your home
- if you have an obstacle course to your bed, coffee table or car
- the length of time your children watch television
- what pulls you away from choosing to collectively prepare and enjoy healthy meals in lieu of fast foods
- the "stuff" in your home that takes up space
- the quality of your morning time
- the benefits of assigning your kids chores and the relationship to building child self-esteem
- emotional clutter in your home
- how to maintain a clutter-free environment once established
Lastly, as I look out my window on another cloudy and chilly day I am aware that although cherry blossoms are in bloom in D.C., and warm and humid weather has returned to the southeast, Spring has yet to arrive in the Wood River Valley. The weather is different in our neck of the wood anyhow. Down right cool conditions (including a few days of snow) with much rain has been difficult for the local nurseries and landscaping businesses. My heart goes out to them. It is said that having trust when things are going well is easy, but how strong is your faith when life doesn’t match your pictures and dreams?
- How committed are you to positive thinking and optimism?
- How steady are you in a belief that things always work out for your highest and best?
- How willing are you to hold close the idea that for things to change you have to change?
- How willing are you to reach out to do something for someone else—especially when you’re feeling sorry for yourself?
- How willing are you to embrace each moment for what it is, and not slip into fantasy of how great life will be when and then?
- How ready are you to actually take steps to change your life?
You’ve just read the results of some ruminating thoughts of mine as I say good-by to May 2010. Thanks for giving me the opportunity to share them with you. I always welcome yours in return and if I can ever be of assistance in answering the question, “How do I change my attitude?” I am at your service.
Quote:
A hero is someone who has given his or her life to something bigger than oneself.
Joseph Campbell
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