Quote of the Week

“Our prime purpose in this life is to help others. And if you can’t help them, at least don’t hurt them.”

                        ~ Dalai Lama ~

It really is a simple concept. If we can introduce it to our brains, keep it there, act on it everyday, soon it will become natural. Small acts of kindness each day can change your life. Not to mention the people who receive your gift of caring. Helping an elderly neighbor by bringing a meal now and then, or offering to pick something up at the store for them is easy and could make their day. A simple phone call to someone who may be lonely could brighten their day while letting them know they are thought of. Take the time to consider your own family members. Do they need support or encouragement? We all need someone to lift us up when we fall, to offer a shoulder to cry on, and to cheer us when we succeed. Remembering to be that shoulder for the people around us can take the focus away from our own troubles.

The second part of the Dalai Lama’s quote reminds me of another quote that goes something like, “Just because you have a pain doesn’t mean you have to be one.” Some of us get cranky when we are in pain or suffering from chronic physical or emotional problems. It is no ones fault and should not be taken out on someone else, especially a caregiver. Complaining and criticizing usually does no good, while a little tenderness and compassion can work wonders. Think about our prime purpose in life, and we can make a difference.