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Be the Blessing By Tina Chandler
February 9, 2013
By Tina Chandler
Be the Blessing: what exactly does that mean TO YOU? The answer is as unique as every situation we face. For some of you it will mean little more than giving a quick smile to someone you pass on the street. For others, it may be a life-changing event for the recipient, for you or BOTH! For the vast majority of us, it will lie somewhere in between, closer to the smile.
Make the decision today to do something unexpected, without fanfare, without a thought of recognition, without expectation of getting something back. Visit a sick friend, volunteer at a shelter or food pantry, get involved at school or church, pitch in when someone is short on change. Offer to take a neighbor to the store; heck, offer to pick up their stuff! Watch your friend’s children so they can run errands or just so they can rest a while. Pick up trash in the park, in the neighborhood.
It took me YEARS, decades, to realize just how blessed I have been in my life. Sure, I lived through some tough stuff, and at the time, I felt alone, unloved and abandoned. But, as I think back on those times, I realize that they were not only hard to go through, they were actually lessons learned. But more than that – I realize that I was never truly alone – God was present in every situation. He allowed me to make my own decisions, good and bad, and teach me through them all. I didn’t know it then, though.
He worked in the background, through the heartache, tears, joy and unexpected “coincidences” to get me where I am today – a Christian, wife, mother, sister, daughter, friend, and yes, even enemy. I have worked for many years in an industry that is volatile at times, but over all, it has been a great opportunity for me to prosper. I met the man who would become my husband. I have a great career and it has afforded my family some comforts and security.
I hope that I can be gracious and giving when the opportunity arises. And believe me, they arise! Need is all around us – open your eyes and heart – Be the Blessing.
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We, as human 'beans' sometimes are oblivious to the blatant opportunities right in front of our eyes...kind of like that pile of socks that eventually becomes part of the decor...
Have a blessed day!