Feeling tired, discouraged, bogged down?  I know I sure feel that way at times.  Lift up your head and look around you for some positive, encouraging examples…

I snuck a photo of our 90+ year old neighbor out mowing her lawn. She defies age.

I know I have written about our 90+ year old neighbor before, but she continues to impress!  Earlier this week I was walking over to pick up our daughter from school and I saw our neighbor out on her John Deere mower, chopping up her leaves.  It was a cool, but pleasant afternoon and she was out tidying up her lawn.  How many 90+ year olds do you know who still mow their own lawns?

She doesn’t have to mow her own lawn.  Two of her children live in adjacent homes and are more than willing to come over and pitch in when help is needed.  Her grandchildren and great grandchildren also come over to help with chores.  My neighbor knows that the secret to ‘staying young’ is to keep moving!

Let me remind you that this is the same 90+ year old neighbor who broke her hip while bowling last year.  One of her first questions to her doctor after surgery was, “When will I be able to bowl again?”  Within months she was back at the bowling alley with her league.  She is a very special lady.

There are lots of special folks around us all.  It seems we know many who are struggling with cancer and other serious illnesses, or are facing other struggles in life.  Our older daughter recently sent out some cards that she drew to some of these folks.  Her cards contained a simple message of encouragement that only a small child could write.  What was interesting to me was the response of those she sent cards to.

When I receive a card I read it and appreciate the sentiment.  The people that our daughter wrote to are in a different place in life.  The card really meant a lot and was a great source of encouragement.  Every one of the recipients of one of her cards either responded with a card of their own that they sent to our daughter, or responded with a letter.  One gentleman even said her card is a prized possession.  When was the last time you have been moved by such a simple gesture?

When I feel tired or overwhelmed, I think of others and the challenges they are facing in life.  I want to say THANK YOU to so many in my life who live out a positive example even in the face of struggles, challenges, and trials.  We have many in our life who are fighting brave, inspiring battles against serious illness and they are a source of inspiration and optimism.  We know others who are givers, constantly thinking of others and their well being and they are a source of perspective and focus.  When we take the focus off our own problems and share in the joys and sorrows of our community, we live a life that is overflowing with blessings.

Don’t forget our Dinnertime Devotionals series.  Devo 42 is hot off the digital presses and is ready for download by clicking the link – Dinnertime Devotionals 42