I hope you're all having a FANTASTIC day!  We woke up to about 4 in. of snow & another 4-6 being called for today!  Needless to say, my little cherubs have no school & I'll have 3 other children here who's parents need to work, so I'll have a FULL HOUSE today with 9 kids total ... WHEW!  It's always fun, though, to get that "unexpected" day off from school ... poor Ray, his district didn't cancel (surprising since everyone around us is closed!), so he didn't get that little "gift" today!  Sorry, hon!

 

Well, today's 212 principle is all about kindness.  At first, I think we immediately think about our actions toward others.  How patient are we toward others in our lives?  How helpful are we to the neighbor or friend, or even stranger we come across in our daily life?  Do we take the time to really listen to our children & others in our lives? We all know what it means to be "kind toward others" ... but I think 212 kindness takes it "one degree further" & says, "How kind are you to YOURSELF?"  You can't truly be kind & loving toward others until you grant YOURSELF that gift!

 

One thing I'm learning in this journey is how HARD that can be!!!!  It is SOOOO much easier to "cheer others on" & give them words of encouragement & support when I "see" someone is down.  I am the first one to jump in & tell OTHERS to hang in there things WILL get better!  I am quick to remind them that a "gain" is part of this process & to be PROUD of their continued efforts!  

 

Why, then, do I find it so difficult to give MYSELF that same "advice"??  Why am I so quick to "judge" myself & harbor negative thoughts/feelings about myself in my head?  Isn't the golden rule "treat others as you wish to be treated" ... if we're treating others with such kindness & respect, don't we deserve the same for ourseleves??

 

Today, I challenge you to show that "extra degree" of kindness not only toward others, but more importantly, TOWARD YOURSELF!  If you make a mistake, DON'T beat yourself up ... stop & think of what you would say to one of your "buddies" in the MPMU!  If you're feeling down about a "bummer weigh-in," see the POSITIVE steps you're taking to change it & MOVE FORWARD!  Find a quiet moment today to read, pray, relax, take a bath ... whatever makes YOU feel rejuvinated & "special" ... YOU DESERVE IT!!!! 

 

Take a moment to share a random act of kindness with someone today ... & then do the SAME for yourself!  I'd LOVE to hear what you did, so please feel free to share!