Author: Kelly Girl

Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.” And they divided up his clothes by casting lots. Luke 23:34

Have you ever come across someone who just wasn’t being very nice? The boys have dealt with that. This boy was really saying nasty and mean things. He was extremely hurtful to my youngest, attacking his character, while my oldest was standing there. Now, let me say that my youngest is a gentle soul and is very sympathetic to others’ pain. He also can display a bit of a temper…quickly. He’s working on harnessing and keeping that temper under control. The oldest believes he can irritate his brother, but nobody else better.

That sounded like it could be a recipe for disaster. They weren’t happy campers, and many around them were pretty mad too, which could’ve fueled the anger. They didn’t give into it though, they didn’t respond with like words, or deal with it physically! They were able to walk away.

This is someone they had to deal with on a regular basis. Unfortunately, hatred continued to spew from his mouth. They struggled with this, they looked to me for help, and they prayed for this person.

Now, I don’t believe in allowing someone to be bullied. Adults were already trying to handle the situation. It wasn’t the boys’ job to “get even” or even repeat the experiences to all their friends.

They tried to see what was behind all the hurt. They harnessed their anger into work for God. They continued to pray for him and to love him as God did. There was certainly hurt going on in this child’s life to act the way he did.

They reached out doing their best to treat him with respect and kindness after the cruel words. This was not them being weak, and it was not condoning this child’s actions. This was showing mighty strength in controlling anger and turning the situation over to the only One who knew how to handle it appropriately.

Unfortunately, I don’t have a wonderful ending to the story. He continued to give others grief and doesn’t seem to be part of that organization anymore. Jesus knew He couldn’t make everyone like Him, just as the boys had to come to that conclusion also.

That young man’s story is far from over though, and just maybe he’ll remember the kindness extended during that hard time in his life. He could turn everything around and do great things.

The character trait for today is Meekness-yielding my personal rights and expectations with a desire to serve (definition from characterfirst.com).

So many people see meek as weak. This couldn’t be further from the truth. Jesus was in no way weak, and he never let anyone take advantage of Him. He just saw higher than those around him. He knew how to bring His power under control. He was able to keep serving while having many people come against Him.

Today, I challenge you to harness your words into great things for God. We must pity those who don’t know better. Be willing to say, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.” Don’t allow bitterness to creep in from a wrong that you feel you need to deal with. Stay meek and allow God to make it up to you. It’s the way to keep your joy and show great strength in your character!

But Ruth replied, “Don’t urge me to leave you or to turn back from you. Where you go I will go, and where you stay I will stay. Your people will be my people and your God my God. Ruth 1:16

Last year was one rough year! It was as if everything bad was coming our way all at once. On Christmas in 2015, I lost two very important people in my life who were my mentors and who I called my mama and papa. It was a time of transition.

Within eight days, we had a puppy…a puppy. The pup couldn’t be crated due to major separation issues. It took me a month of working with him and never leaving him before we found success. He had health problems too. After trips to the veterinarian, we realized he had food allergies. He had to be on a prescription dog food and treats long term. This made it more challenging to train because we couldn’t use the treats that were considered high-value to get his attention in exciting situations. Plus, when I’d take him to train, I’d have to keep a sharp eye out that he didn’t get any treats dropped by the other dog owners or the problems would start again.

By the beginning of March, I had shingles. I was still working with the pup and walking him twice a day, teaching the boys, and trying to keep going. I couldn’t remember things, I was exhausted, I was super sensitive, and basically couldn’t wait to get better. I had some weird things happening!

It was July, and I was still dealing with those symptoms. I kept blaming the shingles. I came across an article about silent warning signs of Lyme disease. Most of them were me! I was dealing with what seemed like a sinus infection, so when I went to get help with that, I asked to be tested for the Lyme disease after a doctor friend told me to do that immediately. Sure enough, it was positive and I started on antibiotics.

Over the next several months, my mind seemed to go downhill. It was so scary! I couldn’t think of words that I was looking for and I couldn’t remember anything. I was writing EVERYTHING down. Thank God that my doctor friends studied into the disease for me and came up with foods to eat and what to drink to help me. I made an appointment with a specialist, but wouldn’t be seeing him for several months.

Now, remember when all this was happening, I didn’t know if I was coming or going, yet I felt like God was calling me to start up this blog. What? Not only was I “allergic” to technology and unable to think of everyday words, He wanted me to write! I felt like I just needed to shut-up and obey, but I would post something and say, “Did that make sense at all?”

Meanwhile, my hubby’s work suffered an explosion that had him scrambling for months and didn’t allow us to get away. Plus, my great-aunt’s health was declining and we ended up losing her. My oldest was working on becoming Eagle and my youngest was working on crossing over into Boy Scouts. Am I forgetting anything?

I’m not complaining with what I’m telling you, I’m celebrating! That season is over and God is promoting us! Almost exactly one year later, we went away, and I came back a whole new person. I felt healed…body, mind, and spirit! I now actually thank God for the Lyme disease. It taught me so very much about stress, eating right, and keeping Him in sight.

I learned what amazing friends I had who encouraged and got me through it. By the way, one of those people told me about apple cider vinegar and pomegranate juice. My mind was so much clearer! That’s what I’m saying…God never let me go through any of what I was talking about alone. He already had people in place to help me. He didn’t take away the problems immediately, but He did carry me through it. I can’t even begin to describe the many miracles and blessings I experienced during that year of painful growth.

Most of all, I realized how blessed I was with my hubby and boys. They were my rocks! They showed me what loyalty means. My hubby stepped in as my knight in shining armor and the boys stepped up and showered me with love and support. We were going through a season of testing, but we were going through it together! It was the year that I grew the most of any other year I’ve lived. I look at life a whole new way and my family is stronger for it!

The character trait for today is Loyalty-using difficult times to demonstrate my commitment to those I serve (definition from characterfirst.com).

Today, if you’re struggling, get excited and keep praising the Lord because something big is about to happen to you! Appreciate those who show loyalty to you. My family doesn’t give up and God never gives up. There is no greater gift! Accept loyalty with gratitude and know that showing loyalty is a privilege.

Here is a poem/prayer that I wrote down years ago, but I don’t know where it came from. I pray this with my family. Maybe you’d like too also:

God, please grant us the blessings of sweet unity to You; the joy of togetherness, the comfort of each other’s warmth in the wintry days of life. The peace of unconditional acceptance, in spite of failures and flaws, the sigh of relief at burdens shared. Please grant us the freedom of truthful expression, a spiritual harmony, and hope for the future because we can face them as one. Please grant us listening ears to unspoken pain, compassionate eyes to see each other’s secret need, gentle words to heal emotional wounds and a love so fiercely loyal that nothing on earth can sever its bond. With all these blessings and more, God the Father please join and hold us together through all eternity to come. Amen.

Blessed are those who act justly, who always do what is right. Psalm 106:3

Some of the biggest lessons I learned in high school didn’t come from the material we were covering, they came from life lessons taught by caring teachers. One of those lessons was during an economics class in high school taught by one of the football coaches. I did my assignments and received good grades on the tests while being pretty quiet in his class.

He was passing out grades one day, and it seemed like mine wasn’t quite right. It didn’t make sense, but what if I was wrong? I didn’t really want to disrespect my teacher and question him, but I didn’t think it was what it should’ve been. This was no reflection on him because he was always very kind to me and approachable. Anyway, I finally got the courage to speak to him about the grade. My voice didn’t reflect confidence that I should’ve had, since there was no reason to think my grade would’ve been anything besides an A in his class.

Do you know what? He got a bit firm with me, and I’ll never forget it. I swear he put that grade on there to teach me a lesson. He looked me in the eye and said in no uncertain terms that I was not to except something that I knew was wrong and that I never should be afraid to speak up. He taught me a lesson in finding my voice, in my confidence, and in justice. I will never forget that lesson or how thankful I am today.

The character trait for today is Justice-taking personal responsibility to uphold what is pure, right, and true (definition from characterfirst.com).

Thomas Jefferson said, “It is reasonable that everyone who asks justice should do justice.” So basically, everyone who wants to be treated fairly should treat others fairly. We do that through doing what is right every time. We respect and never take advantage of others. We must be impartial (unbiased, unprejudiced), treating everyone equally.

Ask yourself if you’re being reasonable and keeping an open-mind in each situation that is comes up. If you see an injustice taking place, stand up for that person. As my high school teacher taught me, never be afraid to speak up!

May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. Romans 15:13

When my mom was pregnant with me, my grandpa had a massive heart attack. He stopped breathing several times, and the doctors kept bringing him back. After he was stabilized, the doctors gave him a maximum of seven years to live. He had several heart attacks throughout the years, but he played a very active role in the lives of his grandchildren. He didn’t pass away until I was 21 years old.

Grandpa taught me how to love the Lord and that actions speak louder than words. He taught me to be on time (I’m not perfect, but I try)…remember Sunday mornings? He was the one out in the back alley teaching me to ride a bike (or the lack of…maybe crashing into the shed has something to do with that).

He taught me to take time to relax by enjoying shows like the Price Is Right. Also, relaxing with loved ones is so important. He loved his family vacations! When I’d say, “Just one more night,” he was all for it!

He taught me confidence by carrying his hot tea without spilling it. He taught me sharing…Trident gum and oranges that I wouldn’t have to peel! He taught me gratitude from a good back scratch while sitting on the arm of his chair. He taught me how to savor a good cantaloupe on a hot day. He taught me to not be afraid to voice my opinion. He even tried teaching me the birds and the bees…I’m still scarred!

What I’m trying to say is that even though he was faced with unpleasant conditions every day of his life for 21 years, he allowed the God of hope to fill him with joy and peace. He trusted in the Lord and maintained a good attitude. I don’t remember the one person who seemingly had a right to complain, doing so. He never stopped living the life God gave him! He still got on my great-grandma’s roof…just to make sure they were doing things right up there! He lived life.

He spent his share of nights in the hospital. We even laughed and had joy during those times! My grandpa’s attitude was a big part of that. My grandma had a huge part in that too. She always made it seem like just another adventure. We got to eat in a great little place within the hospital when we visited. Dessert was always special. She would sit and play games with us too! One vacation we had to leave an amusement park because he had to get to the hospital because of his heart (he didn’t lie around…zoos, amusement parks…), and I don’t even remember thinking that we were missing out.

The character trait for today is Joyfulness-maintaining a good attitude, even when faced with unpleasant conditions (definition from characterfirst.com).

Andrew Matthews said, “We learn more from disasters than we do from success. Disasters get our attention and we take action!”

Steve Remington said, “You will have bad times, but they will always wake you up to the stuff you were not paying attention to. There is always a way to turn a negative situation into an opportunity to become a better version of yourself.”

Grandpa had to slow down, but he didn’t let that get him down. I believe the quality of our time together was so special because he was wide awake to the amount of time he had left, yet he never dwelled on it. He made the best with what he was given.  He was a better version of himself.

Today, when you feel like complaining or getting down in the dumps, stop it! Use whatever problem you’re facing to become a better version of yourself. Have a hot tea and some oranges, it just might make you feel better. Don’t let anything or anyone steal your joy!

Commit to the LORD whatever you do, and he will establish your plans. Proverbs 16:3

When he becomes an adult, my youngest is going to be a paleontologist. I’m reminded of this pretty much every day because he’s quite determined. Is he waiting for a college class to assign him work before he actually studies the information needed to understand his field of study? Absolutely not! He started his studies while he was still young. There hasn’t been anyone telling him that he must read certain books, watch documentaries, or even keep up on the latest news of dinosaurs. Plus, a grade isn’t waiting at the end of a semester, but he sure has taken the initiative to learn everything he can!

The character trait for today is Initiative-recognizing and doing what needs to be done before I am asked to do it (definition from characterfirst.com).

I don’t know about you, but I tell my boys to see what needs done and do it right away. They shouldn’t wait until someone asks them. Just like them, we need to keep our eyes open for ways to show our initiative.

Sometimes it’s easy to see someone else’s need and jump right in there, but how often do we take the initiative do get started on dreams that God has put on our hearts? We want something, but are we showing God that we’re going to take the first steps believing He’s paving the way? It’s about time we make our words line up with His and start speaking what the Bible is telling us! We need to stop waiting for Him to give us a huge shove.

Today, be like my youngest and take a step in faith believing that God will make the dreams He put on your heart come true. Just like him, be prepared for God to do His work. That young man isn’t questioning if it’s going to happen, it’s when. He’s already taken initiative, you can too!

“You don’t have to be great to start but you have to start to be great.” -John C. Maxwell

“The vision must be followed by the venture. It is not enough to stare up the steps; we must step up the stairs.” -Vance Havner

“The start is what stops most people.” -Don Shula

“Inaction breeds doubt and fear. Action breeds confidence and courage. If you want to conquer fear, do not sit home and think about it. Go out and get busy.” -Dale Carnegie

“Whatever you can do or dream you can, begin it. Boldness has genius, magic, and power in it.” -Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

“If all you can do is crawl, start crawling.” -Rumi

Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall. Proverbs 16:18

But he gives us more grace. That is why Scripture says: “God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.” James 4:6

“Why can’t my dog be as well behaved as yours? Look how he’s so focused on you! He’s such beautiful dog.” These are a few of the reactions I’ve received when having my pup out and about. At that point, I started to feel a little pride in our hard work because it was starting to pay off. Yeah, that pat on the back was kinda nice. We went by another dog that was out of control and causing a raucous, and my dog glanced over in a haughty demeanor as if saying, “You uncivilized beast.”

This is about the time when I shook myself out of dreamland and step into reality because I know that the next second I could be asking my dog why in the world he did what he did and ask what he was thinking. Dogs surely aren’t robots and they’re going to make mistakes, and I can pretty much guarantee it’ll be at the most inopportune time. It’ll also show our weakness as their owners. Let me tell you, it’s a great way to stay humble.

The character trait for today is Humility-acknowledging that achievement results from the investment of others in my life (definition from characterfirst.com).

To begin with, I can’t even take the credit for my dog’s behavior. Ok, it’s on me if I can’t control him, but all of his achievements are the results of others. We’ve gone through many classes and books on the subject of dog behavior that have taught us a tremendous amount.

When he is well behaved, God gets most of the credit. I just assume He’s answering the many hundreds of prayers I’ve sent His way to help my dog be calm, obedient, and stable…and not do anything stupid, please not to let him do anything stupid!

Actually, God connected us with someone that only could be His doing. It’s a long story, but we’ve had a brilliant trainer working with us for months now. He’s in a different country, but he’s only a phone call away! He’s patient, gives great advice, leads me to the right path, and never tires of my MANY questions. Well, maybe he does, but is kind enough not to show it. He’s walked me through really trying times and talked me down from complete hysteria in order to handle situations in a calm, controlled way.

So really, when the pup does well, I know it was from all the investment into his training from so many. It makes me nervous when I realize I’m starting to feel prideful of his behavior because I always learn a lesson on humility soon after.

Let me share something I found online by Lawrence Wilson:

Here are seven things you can do nearly every day to practice humility.

1. Avoid taking credit. This goes beyond saying, “Aw shucks,” to deflect a compliment. Practice the discipline of secrecy by keeping one of your achievements from being known to others. That means not saying things like, “I fixed the copier, you can thank me later.”
2. Praise others. Pride makes us envious or resentful of another’s talents. The surest way to break that is to compliment others. Don’t pass up an opportunity.
3. Help others succeed. Few things attack the ego quite as much as helping others succeed. Pride hoards knowledge and resources; humility shares them.
4. Admit your mistakes. Ugh. Nobody likes doing this, but the quicker you’re willing to say “I was wrong” the closer you are to humility.
5. Learn from others. This is another way to appreciate the value of others. When you acknowledge that they have advanced beyond you, you humble yourself.
6. Go last. At a restaurant, at family dinner, in line at Wal-Mart, let someone else go first. It’ll do you good.
7. Serve someone. We instinctively resist serving because we believe there is a direct relationship between being served and being important. Jesus turned that idea on its head. Bring your spouse a cup of tea, run an errand for a friend, give away some money.

The only way to be humble is to be humbled. Though that is difficult to accept, you can do it. Andrew Murray wrote, “The danger of pride is greater and nearer than we think, and the grace for humility too.”

Today, celebrate in your successes, but remember all those who invested in your life for you to see the results you’re getting. Stay humble by practicing some of the advice from Lawrence Wilson!

Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling. 1 Peter 4:9

I spent many Saturday nights staying over at my grandparents’ house. We’d get up in the morning and head out to the patio to have our cereal in the early morning sunshine still dressed in our pajamas. Then, Grandpa would listen to a preacher on the television while we were upstairs getting ready. When it started getting close to when he wanted to get out the door, he’d begin announcing the time…every…few…minutes! Those were the best memories.

That was just the beginning of what would be a wonderful day. After Grandpa got Grandma, my sister, and me corralled out the door and we got filled up with great singing and a refreshing message, it was time to stroll back to their house where the rest of the family would gather.

It was only mid-morning, but the smell of food would greet us as we walked in the door. Grandma had pasta or some other yummy food just waiting for us. She’d have all the salads made and sitting in the fridge with our names on them. Yes, she made a separate salad to suit each person’s taste. Can you imagine? You couldn’t talk her out of it either. It was her way of showing love, and we felt it every time we passed out those special, individual bowls.

I don’t know how many times people would drop in to visit and share a coffee, iced tea, or a meal. Anyone was welcome and many have enjoyed passing time at my grandparents’ house. They showed so much hospitality that you felt like the honored guest. There were many Sundays that I’d even have a friend with me. My friends enjoyed being there as much as I did, and they surely wouldn’t leave hungry! When my hubby started joining us, he was sooo spoiled. He loved it!

There was always laughter, noise, and full stomachs. I don’t remember my grandparents ever telling us to calm down or lower the volume. Well, my aunt would start singing the Amen chorus after grace (the aunt that couldn’t sing), and Grandpa would have to tell her that there was no singing at the table!

It was common to find several people passed out all around the living room and dining room floor for an afternoon nap between all the fun. That’s how comfortable we always felt there. The fun we had playing games and eating even more couldn’t be beat. Those were great times!

The character trait for today is Hospitality-cheerfully sharing food, shelter, and friendship with others (definition from characterfirst.com).

I don’t see as much of those gatherings happening with people anymore. I try to keep some of those traditions alive with my children hoping that they just might want to stop by on those Sunday afternoons after they’ve moved out and started their own families. Sundays are important to us, and I don’t like to see groups schedule meetings and games on those precious days. I even like to still see the afternoon naps take place!

I challenge you to invite someone over soon. Provide some food, a comfy afternoon, and lots of laughter. Don’t grumble about having to clean the house or worry about having everything perfect. I guarantee you that isn’t what’s remembered. The hospitality is what’s remembered.

Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves. Romans 12:10

So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them. Genesis 1:27

Every year, on November 11^th, my boys march in a Veterans’ Day Parade. The scout group that they’re active in always participates in the local celebration. Unfortunately, it was amazing to realize how many children didn’t really know why they were there (besides to be in a parade) or the significance of that day.

My hubby studied with his group so they recognized the importance of showing honor to the veterans. Then, the group passed out several cards to the veterans they met that day. It was great for the children to honor someone by telling them thanks, shaking their hand, and handing them a card.

The character trait for today is Honor-respecting others because of their worth as human beings (definition from characterfirst.com).

The boys started to realize how people you pass on the street, in the store, or even those who live next door have a story. They might not be veterans, but each person has their very own story to tell. Each and every one of us was created in God’s image. If we want to honor God, what better way than to honor each other? How do we honor others? Showing respect is a great first step.

Here are some ideas from goodcharacter.com for children that would do us well to remember:

• Don’t insult people or make fun of them.
• Listen to others when they speak.
• Value other people’s opinions.
• Be considerate of people’s likes and dislikes.
• Don’t mock or tease people.
• Don’t talk about people behind their backs.
• Be sensitive to other people’s feelings.
• Don’t pressure someone to do something he or she doesn’t want to do.

Here’s some more of what goodcharacter.com had to say:  We live in a diverse nation made up of many different cultures, languages, races, and backgrounds. That kind of variety can make all our lives a lot more fun and interesting, but only if we get along with each other. And to do that we have to respect each other. In addition to the list above, here are some ways we can respect people who are different from us.

• Try to learn something from the other person.
• Never stereotype people.
• Show interest and appreciation for other people’s cultures and backgrounds.
• Don’t go along with prejudices and racist attitudes.

Brilliant!  So, the next time you’re around someone, really look at them. Not just the outside, but the inside.  No matter if they seem wonderful or rather rude, recognize they were made in God’s image. They have a story. Be kind. Do it for God. Seriously, just do it, and teach it to the next generation too! It will be a big step forward in our society.

One of them, when he saw he was healed, came back, praising God in a loud voice. Luke 17:15

I remember teaching the boys gratitude from the time they were little. Anytime they were given a drink, handed a toy, received a gift, or got help, they had to respond with a “thank you”. “Please” and “thank you” were looked upon as the magic words. They were the words that would open doors for my little guys when they were young.

As they got older, we had a game we used to play to further show appreciation. I would take brown paper bags and put everyday items in them. These were to represent gifts given to them, and it would help them practice their responses. Let me tell you, these presents could get pretty bizarre and they prepared them for certain occasions! The point was, it didn’t matter what the actual gift was, if it was given with a kind and thoughtful heart, it was special to us.

The character trait for today is Gratefulness-letting others know by my words and actions how they have benefited my life (definition from characterfirst.com).

I wanted to show the veterinarian’s office how much I appreciated their kindness as I was going through figuring out our dog’s food allergies, so for Christmas I took them in some chocolates. I didn’t think much of it, but I received the kindest card from all of them. It really does mean something to others when they know you appreciate them.  So, remember to be grateful.  Better yet, when someone goes above and beyond, let their boss know!

I talked about doors opening for the little guys when they were young, but it’s amazing how doors are still being open in the present, and how they’ll be in the future by those simple words that mean so much. Manners will take a young man far in life. I believe that having gratitude is what will make all of us move forward and not be stagnant.

Today, show someone you’re grateful for something they did for you.  Send out a note, make a phone call, or even take a little gift of appreciation to them. You never know how you’ll make an impact on someone’s life with that gesture.

Also, please remember to thank God often because we’re always receiving his grace. Yet, too often we are like the many lepers who run off accepting the blessings received without turning back to say, “I appreciate it.”  Only one remembered to be grateful. Be that one today!

I’ve challenged my boys to start writing down three things they’re grateful for every day. Also, on their bathroom mirror it says, “I’m thankful for…” This reminds them each time they’re washing their hands to name three things their thankful for. It’ll start a heart of gratitude! You just might want to try it.

A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger. Proverbs 15:1

There’s a bit of a cold that has been running rampant in our house for the past week. I don’t know about you, but tolerance tends to be lower and attitudes take a nosedive when sickness strikes. It’s been much better than ever before because of positivity that’s been in place within our house since the beginning of the year. Still, during the times that are more difficult, we need to be very careful in what we say and how we sound so that we don’t offend others. Simply, we have to be gentler.

The character trait for today is Gentleness-showing consideration and personal concern for others (definition from characterfirst.com).

Yesterday, the hubby wasn’t going out after work because he felt miserable, and the oldest needed a book picked up from the library. I figured I’d run out as soon as he got home, so when I got the call he was leaving work, I waited twenty minutes and put on my coat. Now, he was going to the store, but that usually only adds about five minutes onto his time. I couldn’t image what could’ve happened when he came twenty minutes later with the driver’s door wide open, I didn’t know what to think!

I met him outside and totally screwed up. I didn’t welcome him home and I didn’t say how sorry I was that he was feeling terrible. I immediately asked, “What took so long?” Also, I was wandering about the whole door situation, but that’s a discussion for another time. Apparently he went to a store that took longer to get to in order to buy orange juice. He seemed a bit angry and frustrated. What just happened?

Three words keep coming to mind as I’m writing this today…tone of voice. Sometimes it isn’t about what’s being said, it’s how it’s said. Was I sweet and his soft place when he came home or was I demanding answers as soon as he pulled in?

Dr. Leman wrote, “A man needs to feel your respect in order to love you the way you want to be loved. If he doesn’t feel your respect, he won’t climb out of his turtle shell to risk loving you because he might get hurt.” Did he feel disrespected?

I needed to ask myself if he felt like I was a loving partner or a boss demanding a response. I think we know the answer to that, even if it wasn’t what I meant. I was just trying to get to the library, but I hurt his feelings. Remember…sickness…sensitive! He needed that extra love, even if I held my breath the whole time so I wouldn’t be sucking in his germs! Instead, I’m jumping in the vehicle while firing off questions. I shouldn’t have done that even if he wasn’t sick!

Today, ask yourself if what and how you are saying something is helping you reach a goal of making your relationships stronger. If it isn’t, don’t even let the words out. Don’t be harsh, but be gentle. Show consideration for those who cross your path. If they’re sick, be extra careful!