As I listen to my father and other “elders” {sorry Dad, I love ya, but you are an “elder” to me. LOL} I realize how the “good ol’ days” used to be. Everyone gave to each other, neighbors helped neighbors and people were happy, giving and were grateful for the family they had. All that matter was love, and a safe, healthy home.  When I visit my father’s home in Vermont, I see a large piece of this community type of giving and receiving. The state of Vermont is so friendly, no matter who you pass they nod their head and wave. No matter where you go someone is there to lend a hand. You will see a huge assortment of friendly farmers, including my Dad, with a cute little farm stand. These farm stands include fresh veggies, and sometimes fruit that is home grown by farmers.

As I spend my weekend with a virtual friend, and actually get to see her smile in real life, get to hear her voice, see her face, I realize how important true friendship is. Dwan is a person I have given to, whether it be advice,  a late night phone call that lasts for hours, or it be help with her blog. No matter what I am here for Dwan and she is here for me. That is what true friendship and community should be all about! Before I move on, here is a great picture story of friendship and family – good times, and happy friends:

I invite you to take a look into your life, do you have a friend, neighbor or family friend who is having a hard time? Do you know someone who could use a helping hand? We all need a helping hand at one time or another, why not start today by giving to someone else. You don’t have to be rich to give to others, a simply smile and how do you do today is all it can take to change one persons life. Think of that homeless person you walk by each day? Do you even give them your time? What if you took the time to say hello, how are you today to just ONE new person each day? What if you took the time to introduce yourself to your neighbors? I bet if you took the time to make just one new person smile everyday you would not only make THEM feel better but YOU would feel better.

Yesterday I went to my local grocery store with Dwan and I was telling her how the cashier was just really rude the whole time, and then said have a nice day afterwards, as if that was her act of kindness of the day. Dwan replied that in the city no one talks to each other, they talk on their cell phone while going through the checkout lane! I could not believe this? Really?! I mean I think it is incredibly rude to sit on your cell phone while going through a checkout line .. I actually am the first person to ask the cashier how their day is going, or to tell them to have a fantastic night. I seriously chit chat with the cashiers while they are checking me out. {this drives my non-sociable husband crazy, but he just smiles since he knows this is ME}

I could not imagine living a life that you do not take the time to embrace friendship and embrace community. Whether virtual or in real life everyone should respect, love and befriend each other. Do not get me wrong, there are some mean, bad, bitter people in this world, but what if, just what if someone took the time to work on that person? I have changed a few bitter people to be happy, and it made me feel great!! I was so amazed to hear these bitter people turn from angry voices to nearly having laughter in their voice. It was like the person was thankful that I took the time to make sure THEY were happy, it was like they were thankful for silly ol’ me who laughs off bad times and moves on towards a better future.

Take the time to understand another person, understand who they are, where they are coming from and where they want to go. Take the time to love each other, give a hug or handshake, make eye contact and tell someone new to have a nice day today. I am excited to see how this works out for you.