Ripples #970: Wonderful Gifts!
Dec 25, 2017
PEBBLE
A wonderful gift may not be wrapped as you expect.
-Jonathan Lockwood Huie, shared by Holly in Phoenix, AZ
BOULDER
A great gift has been made to each and every one of us—the privilege of living in the world for a short span of years and the opportunity of doing our part to help the less fortunate; to improve civilization; to advance knowledge, both the scientific knowledge of men and the wisdom which is from above. The gift of human life and the opportunity which is ours to serve others…should be regarded as a sacred trust.
-George Pepperdine
shared by a Secret Friend of Ripples via Values.com
http://www.values.com/inspirational-quotes/6579–a-Great-Gift-Has-Been-Made
PONDER
Many of us are celebrating Christmas today, and I hope that we can all appreciate the gifts we’ve received this year whether they are objects under the tree, relationships that have deepened, or good stuff that has unfolded in various areas of life (work, school, health, money, etc.).
If your life is anything like my life, you’ve also had some tough stuff to tackle as well. Keep in mind that there are a few ways to unwrap the presents that can be hidden in unpleasant/unwelcome happenings: perhaps the difficulty is far enough behind you that you can say, “WHEW I’m glad that is over!” or maybe you could reframe it as, “I suppose this could have been worse;” finally, there may be ways it helped you grow so at least you’re a little stronger and wiser because it was in your life. (There are also some “gifts” that are so unwelcome and so unpleasant that you’re allowed to scream into the void, “I didn’t like this present one bit!”)
Regardless of what beliefs you hold and traditions you participate in, I’m wishing you happy holidays and hoping that you’re able to wrap up the year by reminiscing on many wonderful gifts you’ve received and given. I look forward to connecting with you next week to help kick off the next year!
Peace,
Paul
The Ripples Guy
