What Matters Today

This is what I woke up to this morning. After we'd gone to bed last night, Elisabeth went up to the store, bought flowers and a card. She'd written a lovely note thanking us for being there for her, especially during the tough times of high school and for loving her through them. (Have I mentioned how much fun teenagers are?) Sure there are bumps along the way, but you also begin to see their character taking shape. As you turn them loose, watch them struggle through mistakes, do the right thing, it is pure joy to a parent's heart. (And even more so as they move beyond those years and they make you ever so proud as you watch them become adults.) Thank-you Elisabeth.

But this got me to thinking, what am I doing that counts? Did I do anything today that made a difference? So, I wanted to put out a challenge to anyone who reads this. Today go above and beyond in some small (or big) way to make a difference in someone else's life.

That might mean sending a text message to remind someone you love them. Or when that kid spills her milk for the 3rd time instead of yelling like you want to, you lean over, kiss her forehead and tell her it's ok and that you are so thankful you get to be her mommy. Maybe you are standing in line at the grocery store and get in the absolute slowest line. The person behind you is muttering unkind things under their breath so you let them go ahead of you and say something kind to them-or to the checker who is going as fast as humanly possible (or maybe is just taking their time.) While you are going about your day, whether it is planned or something that happens spontaneously that you think of because of this challenge do something that counts. Then come back and leave a comment about what you did. (Or put it on your own blog and leave the link.)

Let the count begin!