Defenses

I was walking through crowds of people the other day in a known vacation area and decided to be extra friendly.  Periodically, I said hello or greeted individuals and couples. I was careful not to be offensive to lovebirds or those in a hurry, especially, since this is the valentine weekend.
Some people ignored me completely.  Many people gave me an unfriendly look. A handful of people acknowledged my greeting but quickly looked away. A few people actually responded with a smile and we engaged in a brief conversation.
I think that it is incredible how our nation bands together in moments of crisis but what about the everyday moments of basic human kindness towards each other? Challenge yourself today.  Whether you are on the sidewalk, in the elevator, standing in line or sitting on a park bench, try smiling more and greeting those who pass you by.  You may be surprised who you meet when you let your guard down.   
So, on that note, the quote of the day is:

"Let the warmth of your soul emit outward and melt the cold exterior of others." tc

Your entitlement

There is a prevailing attitude of 'entitlement without cause' in our country today.  We hear about crooked politicians on the news getting caught performing illegal deals.  We read about money managers stealing millions from their clients.  We even watch reality programs on TV that encourage and support poor behavior.
Interestingly enough, all of this daily 'entertainment' impacts how we relate in the world.  Oftentimes, while we are busy focusing on everyone else's lives, we do not look in the mirror at the situations that we are creating in our own. 
If we do not spend quality time with our families, we create the breakdown in the family unit.  If we work excessively to acquire money, power and prestige, we create the stressful environment that comes without rest.  If we eat foods that are unhealthy and sit around all day, we create the diseases that weaken our bodies. 
I believe that it is time for all of us to refocus our attention on our own lives and see the measure of entitlement that we have established as the norm.  We are not helpless bystanders of circumstance.  We are responsible for what we produce: good or bad.

So, on that note, the quote of the day is:

"We create our thunderstorms in life.  God only offers the rainbows." tc