This article is pretty cool. Shows the importance of explaining weather AND emergency preparedness to kids and WHY it's so important. Too valuable not to share.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/08/23/AR2010082304139.html?referrer=emailarticle
Thursday, July 12, 2012
Monday, July 9, 2012
Bitterness
Sometimes when you're deeply hurt by people's actions, you never..... ever forget. Even if not intentional.
And since it had to do with my Mom, it's even worse.
For all the numerous times I've done things for so many people to help them out.... makes the pain even worse. My Mom was the most gentle person in the world who loved animals.
The lack of respect my Mom received from friends and a lot of coworkers will always bother me.
And please don't judge me for venting.
I'm just still very hurt.
And every time someone mentions donations for the passing of a parent, it just makes the flood of disappoint flow right back in.
Maybe one day I will get over this. I hope I do, because it still deeply hurts.
And since it had to do with my Mom, it's even worse.
For all the numerous times I've done things for so many people to help them out.... makes the pain even worse. My Mom was the most gentle person in the world who loved animals.
The lack of respect my Mom received from friends and a lot of coworkers will always bother me.
And please don't judge me for venting.
I'm just still very hurt.
And every time someone mentions donations for the passing of a parent, it just makes the flood of disappoint flow right back in.
Maybe one day I will get over this. I hope I do, because it still deeply hurts.
Monday, July 2, 2012
Walking Away is Difficult
Saw this quote the other day, so of course it reminded of me something and I wanted to share:
I can't begin to tell you how tough it has been for me to walk away from "unhealthy" relationships. I would rather suffer in misery than take that step to finally do what I REALLY SHOULD do: Walk away.
Why do we do that? Why do we stay?
I think simply it's because it's easier to stay. It's easier to put up with an unhappy relationship, than actually leaving it.
While it may sound profoundly stupid to stay in an unhappy relationship, we do have history with that person. We are still comfortable with them. And we still care for them, even if we are unhappy. And, it IS easier to stay together. I don't want be the person who finally decides to break up, but I also don't want to be the person that was left behind.
Most of my breakups were because they broke up with me. While each break up was necessary, and needed, it still hurt.
And who wants to go through pain and suffering? It's easier to stay and be miserable than heartbroken, right?
The few times I broke it off, one being my marriage, I was beyond unhappy. I was beyond just "leaving things as is." I finally decided to move on; it was the right thing to do.
But there are other relationships I should have ended many years or months before. For some odd, stupid reason I stayed WAY too long.
I actually REALLY envy the women who can leave when they should. I envy the woman who walks away from a man because she knows he's cheating on her; because she knows he's not good for her; because he isn't responsible, etc.
I found myself in many relationships I never should have been in to begin with.
I'm not the type of person who views things long term. I live in the present; in the moment. So what if the guy I like is not productive or lives in another city, or whatever. I didn't mind. I was happy living the life I knew best - just having fun.
Of course, that means making really bad choices, lol. I don't regret a thing or a choice, but I could have saved myself A LOT of tears and months of unbearable heartache from guys treating me bad if I just would have left sooner, when my brain told me I should end the nonsense.
I have a friend who wrote down all the qualities she wanted in a man. Writing down these things are so important, if that's truly the person you want to find. She found him, too. She is happier than I've ever seen her.
I'm not saying if you describe your ideal man he will magically ride up on his horse with his prince charming outfit on, but I AM saying that when you meet guys, if he doesn't have certain important qualities on your list, then you don't need to invest a lot of time in him; because that's not the type of guy you are looking for.
Still, be like my other friend and walk away (the sooner the better) if you have been unhappy in your relationship. You know in your head what you need to do; it's your heart that gets in the way. The time will come when you make that decision. And you will glad very grateful when you do. Life is short; you will find a good relationship(s)!
Sometimes walking away has nothing to do with weakness, and everything to do with strength. We walk away not because we want others to realize our worth and value, but because we finally realize our own. — Unknown
I can't begin to tell you how tough it has been for me to walk away from "unhealthy" relationships. I would rather suffer in misery than take that step to finally do what I REALLY SHOULD do: Walk away.
Why do we do that? Why do we stay?
I think simply it's because it's easier to stay. It's easier to put up with an unhappy relationship, than actually leaving it.
While it may sound profoundly stupid to stay in an unhappy relationship, we do have history with that person. We are still comfortable with them. And we still care for them, even if we are unhappy. And, it IS easier to stay together. I don't want be the person who finally decides to break up, but I also don't want to be the person that was left behind.
Most of my breakups were because they broke up with me. While each break up was necessary, and needed, it still hurt.
And who wants to go through pain and suffering? It's easier to stay and be miserable than heartbroken, right?
The few times I broke it off, one being my marriage, I was beyond unhappy. I was beyond just "leaving things as is." I finally decided to move on; it was the right thing to do.
But there are other relationships I should have ended many years or months before. For some odd, stupid reason I stayed WAY too long.
I actually REALLY envy the women who can leave when they should. I envy the woman who walks away from a man because she knows he's cheating on her; because she knows he's not good for her; because he isn't responsible, etc.
I found myself in many relationships I never should have been in to begin with.
I'm not the type of person who views things long term. I live in the present; in the moment. So what if the guy I like is not productive or lives in another city, or whatever. I didn't mind. I was happy living the life I knew best - just having fun.
Of course, that means making really bad choices, lol. I don't regret a thing or a choice, but I could have saved myself A LOT of tears and months of unbearable heartache from guys treating me bad if I just would have left sooner, when my brain told me I should end the nonsense.
I have a friend who wrote down all the qualities she wanted in a man. Writing down these things are so important, if that's truly the person you want to find. She found him, too. She is happier than I've ever seen her.
I'm not saying if you describe your ideal man he will magically ride up on his horse with his prince charming outfit on, but I AM saying that when you meet guys, if he doesn't have certain important qualities on your list, then you don't need to invest a lot of time in him; because that's not the type of guy you are looking for.
Still, be like my other friend and walk away (the sooner the better) if you have been unhappy in your relationship. You know in your head what you need to do; it's your heart that gets in the way. The time will come when you make that decision. And you will glad very grateful when you do. Life is short; you will find a good relationship(s)!
Wednesday, June 20, 2012
My Friends Know the Real Me
These two quotes resonate with me lately:
I heard recently that someone was talking bad about me. While I had heard before this woman was extremely jealous of me (for NO reason - she has self esteem issues and doesn't like any single female to even say hello to her man), but I found out recently she was saying really crappy, untrue things about me.
Jealousy is a very sad, mean emotion that I wish didn't existed. While I have the Green Monster living in me, also (I hate that little green monster), I have not been on the other end of a female that is jealous of me to the point of being vindictive. And because of that, she talks bad of me. Making things up, saying really unfortunate things about my character. All because she's unsure of herself and her relationship.
I am very happy with my b/f and never even look at anyone else. So, I'm actually very confused by her.
So, for someone to talk ill of me because they have issues with themselves is very disconcerting.
I try to take the high road when I can (it's a much better view!), so I just hope the way I have lived my life, and the way I treat my friends makes her words invalid; because they know the real me.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
I heard recently that someone was talking bad about me. While I had heard before this woman was extremely jealous of me (for NO reason - she has self esteem issues and doesn't like any single female to even say hello to her man), but I found out recently she was saying really crappy, untrue things about me.
Jealousy is a very sad, mean emotion that I wish didn't existed. While I have the Green Monster living in me, also (I hate that little green monster), I have not been on the other end of a female that is jealous of me to the point of being vindictive. And because of that, she talks bad of me. Making things up, saying really unfortunate things about my character. All because she's unsure of herself and her relationship.
I am very happy with my b/f and never even look at anyone else. So, I'm actually very confused by her.
So, for someone to talk ill of me because they have issues with themselves is very disconcerting.
I try to take the high road when I can (it's a much better view!), so I just hope the way I have lived my life, and the way I treat my friends makes her words invalid; because they know the real me.
Monday, June 18, 2012
Hidden Litter Box
My neighbors back in San Antonio made this AWESOME kitty litter box hideaway!
It looks like a regular cabinet/table thingy, with a large door.
But what is hiding inside the stained "cabinet" is a litter box! There is a clever hole on the side that the cat can walk through and then safely walk into the litter box.
The small walk-in for the cat is hidden on the side, so it isn't easily seen by people visiting your home. And because the litter box is inside this "cabinet" it helps control the smell too. Plus, we all know how cats like their privacy when doing their business!
The big door is for a good purpose - so you can easily take out the kitty litter box to clean it!
I have two of these. I love them; extremely versatile.
It looks like a regular cabinet/table thingy, with a large door.
But what is hiding inside the stained "cabinet" is a litter box! There is a clever hole on the side that the cat can walk through and then safely walk into the litter box.
The small walk-in for the cat is hidden on the side, so it isn't easily seen by people visiting your home. And because the litter box is inside this "cabinet" it helps control the smell too. Plus, we all know how cats like their privacy when doing their business!
The big door is for a good purpose - so you can easily take out the kitty litter box to clean it!
I have two of these. I love them; extremely versatile.
Friday, June 15, 2012
Behind every recipe is a story: Mom's Spaghetti
My Mom had this great recipe for spaghetti! She would make it once a month or so all my teenage years, and I would devour it in several sittings (it was enough for several meals).
We never had store bought spaghetti and even to this day, I cannot eat spaghetti at a restaurant, because it's not "Mom's Spaghetti."
My Mom knew what I did and did not like and most spaghetti sauces have huge chunks of onions in it, and I do NOT like onions. If I take a bite of something and can feel an onion on my tongue, I spit it out, and push my plate away. YUCK!
I always visited my parents a couple of weekends a month while I was in college. This one particular weekend, my Mom asked me what I wanted to eat and of course I said, "Mom's Spaghetti."
During the late afternoon on Saturday, I come flying through the kitchen to go into the backyard and I stop dead in my tracks.
"Mom, what are you doing!?!" I say with a raised, upset voice.
"You KNOW I don't like onions!"
There they were, 2-3 big round onions sitting on the carving board.
"Melinda," she shares, "I've been putting onions in the spaghetti all these years, Honey."
I look at her dumbfounded.
"What?" I now say in a whispering, deflated, disappointed voice.
She continues, "I put them in the blender and the onion purees and you can't see it or feel it in your mouth. I've been doing it for years."
"You have?"
"Yes, and you never noticed, so you better eat dinner," she demanded.
I ate dinner that night (carefully at first) and it was still VERY tasty and Mom was right, I could not tell there were onions in it.
Years later, I get her spaghetti recipe from her because I'm craving the awesome taste of it. I go to the grocery store and on the list for the spaghetti is "Two Medium Yellow Onions."
"Two medium yellow onions," I repeat in my head.
I am in the fresh vegetables area and I walk up to the onions. I see there are white kinds and yellow kinds.
Medium?
WTH would be a "medium?"
Being as I HATE onions, I have never bought an onion before in my life. Medium? I tried my best to pick two medium yellow onions and went on my way with the rest of the recipe ingredients down the list.
I got home and made the spaghetti, putting the onions in the blender with the cans of whole tomatoes. Blending for a LONG time to ensure the onions aren't even visible, lol.
Turns out, now I buy even MORE onions for Mom's Spaghetti. :) Little did I know that's what gives the sauce it's sweet taste! Two mediums will no longer suffice. :)
Mom's Spaghetti Recipe:
We never had store bought spaghetti and even to this day, I cannot eat spaghetti at a restaurant, because it's not "Mom's Spaghetti."
My Mom knew what I did and did not like and most spaghetti sauces have huge chunks of onions in it, and I do NOT like onions. If I take a bite of something and can feel an onion on my tongue, I spit it out, and push my plate away. YUCK!
I always visited my parents a couple of weekends a month while I was in college. This one particular weekend, my Mom asked me what I wanted to eat and of course I said, "Mom's Spaghetti."
During the late afternoon on Saturday, I come flying through the kitchen to go into the backyard and I stop dead in my tracks.
"Mom, what are you doing!?!" I say with a raised, upset voice.
"You KNOW I don't like onions!"
There they were, 2-3 big round onions sitting on the carving board.
"Melinda," she shares, "I've been putting onions in the spaghetti all these years, Honey."
I look at her dumbfounded.
"What?" I now say in a whispering, deflated, disappointed voice.
She continues, "I put them in the blender and the onion purees and you can't see it or feel it in your mouth. I've been doing it for years."
"You have?"
"Yes, and you never noticed, so you better eat dinner," she demanded.
I ate dinner that night (carefully at first) and it was still VERY tasty and Mom was right, I could not tell there were onions in it.
Years later, I get her spaghetti recipe from her because I'm craving the awesome taste of it. I go to the grocery store and on the list for the spaghetti is "Two Medium Yellow Onions."
"Two medium yellow onions," I repeat in my head.
I am in the fresh vegetables area and I walk up to the onions. I see there are white kinds and yellow kinds.
Medium?
WTH would be a "medium?"
Being as I HATE onions, I have never bought an onion before in my life. Medium? I tried my best to pick two medium yellow onions and went on my way with the rest of the recipe ingredients down the list.
I got home and made the spaghetti, putting the onions in the blender with the cans of whole tomatoes. Blending for a LONG time to ensure the onions aren't even visible, lol.
Turns out, now I buy even MORE onions for Mom's Spaghetti. :) Little did I know that's what gives the sauce it's sweet taste! Two mediums will no longer suffice. :)
Mom's Spaghetti Recipe:
1 pound of hamburger
2 each-6oz can of Hunts tomato paste and sauce
2 can Hunts whole, peeled tomatoes (28oz)
2 yellow medium onions (blend in blender with whole tomatoes)
4 pinches of sweet basil and oregano
2 leaves of bay (not turkish)
4 pinches italian seasoning
3 pinches of (fine,ground)
4 pinches of minced garlic
1 cup of red win
Thursday, June 7, 2012
Turn Around Don't Drown - It could save your life!
I really wish this was a law in every sate:
Proposed PA Law Aims to Curb Flood Barricade By-Passers:
http://www.accuweather.com/en/weather-news/proposed-pa-law-aims-to-curb-f/65268
TURN AROUND DON'T DROWN people!!
Proposed PA Law Aims to Curb Flood Barricade By-Passers:
http://www.accuweather.com/en/weather-news/proposed-pa-law-aims-to-curb-f/65268
TURN AROUND DON'T DROWN people!!
Friendships are to be valued.
I can't begin to express that
the ONLY reason I am surviving the loss of my Mom is because of
friendships.
WikiPedia expresses this well: The value of friendship is often the result of friends who consistently demonstrate:
WikiPedia expresses this well: The value of friendship is often the result of friends who consistently demonstrate:
- The tendency to desire what is best for the other
- Sympathy and empathy
- Honesty, even in situations where it may be difficult for others to speak the truth
- Mutual understanding and compassion; ability to go to each other for emotional support
- Enjoyment of each other's company
- Trust in one another
- Positive reciprocity — equal give-and-take between the two parties
- The ability to be oneself, express one's feelings and make mistakes without fear of judgement
Wednesday, June 6, 2012
If something happens to me....
If something happens to me, don't feel sorry for me. Because I will be very happy.... because I will be with my Mom! :)
Monday, June 4, 2012
Burial at Sea
One of my coworkers passed away in Oct 2010. This is a moving video of his burial at sea:
Burial at Sea aboard the USS PAUL HAMILTON (DDG-60) on April 18, 2012 just south of Oahu, Hawaii.
Robert Luke was a very good man. He was the person who always stepped up to help others in need. I will never forget what a selfless man he was towards others. I can only imagine what his family has been through, as his death was unexpected. It definitely was a shock to his other family - his coworkers.
From Broadside Blog: "This video was made public just before Memorial Day by his widow. It is the fitting last voyage of AGC (SW/AW) Robert Luke – we all knew him simply as Luke. The ceremony was conducted with pride by the crew of USS PAUL HAMILTON (DDG 60) just south of Oahu.
If you have never witnessed a burial at sea, this is a good example of how it should be done.
Rest in peace, Luke. "
Burial at Sea aboard the USS PAUL HAMILTON (DDG-60) on April 18, 2012 just south of Oahu, Hawaii.
Robert Luke was a very good man. He was the person who always stepped up to help others in need. I will never forget what a selfless man he was towards others. I can only imagine what his family has been through, as his death was unexpected. It definitely was a shock to his other family - his coworkers.
From Broadside Blog: "This video was made public just before Memorial Day by his widow. It is the fitting last voyage of AGC (SW/AW) Robert Luke – we all knew him simply as Luke. The ceremony was conducted with pride by the crew of USS PAUL HAMILTON (DDG 60) just south of Oahu.
If you have never witnessed a burial at sea, this is a good example of how it should be done.
Rest in peace, Luke. "
Thursday, May 24, 2012
No Regrets
I love this! I have no regrets. None; not at all.
Why?
Because I live by the belief that everything in life happens for a reason and makes us stronger for the future; to help ourselves or to help others.
Breakups, or some decisions I've made in the past, or some choices that weren't the best, I'm not proud of. But they all still make me, ME.
I have lots of things to be thankful for! And if there are things others may see as "regrets," I don't view them that way. Instead, I see them as learning experiences; strength; courage to make changes, or to get back up.
Regret is not a word I use. Do I feel bad sometimes for some of my decisions? Of course! But, every decision leads to a better me, so I can be better for those around me.
Wednesday, May 23, 2012
Monday, May 21, 2012
My Aunt Carol and Uncle Charlie
You never know just how impactful people can be in life. And how they show up at just the right times, with the best advice.
This is perfectly proven by my Aunt Carol and Uncle Charlie.
My Mom remarried in 1981 to Thomas Bailey and they were married for 25 years until his death. When they got married, I gained a huge Bailey family! My Dad had 6 brothers and sisters and I all of a sudden became the second oldest grandchild, and the oldest granddaughter. :)
I hadn't had family around too much before that. My Mom's parents had passed when I was young and we didn't keep touch with my real Dad's family or my Mom's sisters' family. So, all of a sudden I'm 11 years old with a HUGE family. Grandma Bailey welcomed me into the family with open arms, and I will never forget how I felt loved and welcomed right away.
The Bailey crew treated me well and I loved that I had cousins and aunts and uncles that I saw for holidays and special events.
Little did I know that one Aunt in particular would help me several times throughout important points of my life. And her husband, is helping me now.
When I graduated college in 1992, my Mom had back surgery and my Dad had open heart surgery. They could not travel 5 hours to Texas A&M for my graduation nor come up to maybe celebrate together for a nice dinner. Ironically, my Aunt Carol and Uncle Charlie lived in College Station and they magically stepped up and held a get-together for me. It was small, nice, and PERFECT. My Aunt Carol put it all together for my special day. I honestly do not know if she was even asked; I think she just decided to do it because she knew it was an important time in my life that deserved a little attention.
Little did I know this wouldn't be the first, nor the last time she would help me in critical points in my life.
Altho divorced now, in 2005 I got married in a small but beautiful wedding ceremony in San Antonio, Texas. I sent out the invitations and for some reason, my Aunt Carol and Uncle Bailey didn't receive one! Luckily, Aunt Carol called me and I am SO glad she did - I had no idea they didn't receive the invite.
Little did I know that her calling and them coming to the ceremony would soon be a biggest blessing!!
For my special day, I wore a dress that made me feel like a princess! And I had heard my Dad was dressed to the 9s as well. As I was getting ready in my bridal room, all the aunts came in to visit me, including my Aunt Carol. They all told me, "You look SO beautiful!"
I tried not to cry and give them all a big hug in my tight dress I could barely breathe in, lol. Then Aunt Carol said, "You should really let your Dad see you." I looked at her confused, as the words didn't make sense. She continued, "Your Dad looks amazing and so do you. If you see each other for very first time at the top of the aisle, you will both lose it too much to even walk together!"
So, they went to get my Dad.
Sure enough, as he walked in to the bridal room, he and I both lost it! I had never seen him look so handsome, and his little girl was getting married. All his sisters watched us hug and cry. They shed tears also as they witnessed this amazing, beautiful, special, emotional moment between father and daughter.
My Aunt Carol was SO right. If I had seen him when we were first to meet up at the top of the aisle, we each wouldn't have been able to handle it. It was THE single best advice I received about my wedding day, and I am very thankful my Aunt Carol shared that with me. I now share this amazing advice with others.
Two years later, Aunt Carol would help me again.
In 2007, my Dad passed away. As I stood in the kitchen, with my Mom sitting beside me as I held her, I made the extremely painful phone calls to his brothers, sisters, and friends to tell them the news. I called my Uncle Charlie and told him the sad news about his brother. Although the phone call was shocking, he helped me out by calling a few people, so I wouldn't have to be the only one to call everyone. While my Dad was sick and not healthy, his passing was still unexpected.
About 30-60 minutes later, my Aunt Carol calls. "I know you are busy, but I want to tell you that if your Dad had a life insurance policy...." I interrupted, "A small one." She shared, "Well, the funeral home will pay for the expenses through the life insurance policy. You wont have to pay anything, and the life insurance company and the funeral home will handle all the paperwork."
"Really?" I asked.
"Yes, and that will also be the avenue that the life insurance company is informed of his passing."
No one had ever passed away that close to me, so I had NO idea this was the case. I hadn't even thought about how we would pay for the cremation. Everything was still a shock, because not only did he pass unexpectedly, my Mom and I found him passed away. So, I wasn't thinking too clear.
I called the funeral home, gave them the info, and all was taken care of; just like my Aunt said.
She helped me out SO much.
You have to understand that because we live in separate cities, I don't really keep in touch with my Aunt Carol or even see her. She just seems to pop up with the best advice, at the perfect times, at the most critical points of my life.
I promise you that if I was to have a child, she would call me and tell me something no else had said to me to help me have a smooth delivery. She's like my Guardian Angel of Life. Shes slips in and out at the most important parts of my life, and offers advice and knowledge like no other.
And there's more:
When my Mom was in a "rehab facility" (i.e., nursing home), my Aunt called and gave me advice about medicare and medicaid. My Aunt was now an office manager of a nursing home and knew the ins and outs of the policy/paperwork.
And when my dear Mom passed in August 2011, my best friend in the world and my reason for living, she had been sent to hospice with me by her side. My Aunt Carol did THE one thing I needed: She called, asked if I needed anything, knew I wanted to be alone with her, and didn't bother me again. She recognized to not keep me on the phone, just to quickly offer her assistance if I needed anything, and to not make things worse by forcing her way to come see us. She recognized my Mom and I would be best together, alone, just the two of us. But, Aunt Carol still let me know she was there if I needed to talk.
The reason why this sticks out to me, is because several family members were insistent that they come to be with me in hospice with my Mom. It put me in a VERY awkward position to tell them no. I needed to be spending quality time with the last hours with my Mom, not on the phone with people who all of a sudden wanted to be there for us.
As I look back at all the pivotal times in my life that she has helped me, I am amazed and flattered and THANKFUL she is part of the Bailey family, also. I cannot begin to express without crying how much she has helped me through tough times, happy times, and important points in my life.
Her husband is now helping me. I am all alone without Mom, no one else because I am an only child. My Uncle Charlie follows me on facebook! He "likes" my funny photos or he comments on my sad posts about the loss of my Mom that still hurts. I feel like he's watching over me for my Mom and Dad, just by simple little clicks of the "like" button. He's the only Bailey Aunt or Uncle that does that almost every other day and I can't even begin to express how much the simple gesture means to me that he keeps up with me.
The whole Bailey family is wonderful! I hate to single anyone out as my cousin Kelly is amazing and my other aunts are truly awesome, it's just that my Aunt Carol and Uncle Charlie seem to take care of me. They are gifts from God.
Aunt Carol and Uncle Bailey: THANK YOU! And, I love you.
This is perfectly proven by my Aunt Carol and Uncle Charlie.
My Mom remarried in 1981 to Thomas Bailey and they were married for 25 years until his death. When they got married, I gained a huge Bailey family! My Dad had 6 brothers and sisters and I all of a sudden became the second oldest grandchild, and the oldest granddaughter. :)
I hadn't had family around too much before that. My Mom's parents had passed when I was young and we didn't keep touch with my real Dad's family or my Mom's sisters' family. So, all of a sudden I'm 11 years old with a HUGE family. Grandma Bailey welcomed me into the family with open arms, and I will never forget how I felt loved and welcomed right away.
The Bailey crew treated me well and I loved that I had cousins and aunts and uncles that I saw for holidays and special events.
Little did I know that one Aunt in particular would help me several times throughout important points of my life. And her husband, is helping me now.
When I graduated college in 1992, my Mom had back surgery and my Dad had open heart surgery. They could not travel 5 hours to Texas A&M for my graduation nor come up to maybe celebrate together for a nice dinner. Ironically, my Aunt Carol and Uncle Charlie lived in College Station and they magically stepped up and held a get-together for me. It was small, nice, and PERFECT. My Aunt Carol put it all together for my special day. I honestly do not know if she was even asked; I think she just decided to do it because she knew it was an important time in my life that deserved a little attention.
Little did I know this wouldn't be the first, nor the last time she would help me in critical points in my life.
Altho divorced now, in 2005 I got married in a small but beautiful wedding ceremony in San Antonio, Texas. I sent out the invitations and for some reason, my Aunt Carol and Uncle Bailey didn't receive one! Luckily, Aunt Carol called me and I am SO glad she did - I had no idea they didn't receive the invite.
Little did I know that her calling and them coming to the ceremony would soon be a biggest blessing!!
For my special day, I wore a dress that made me feel like a princess! And I had heard my Dad was dressed to the 9s as well. As I was getting ready in my bridal room, all the aunts came in to visit me, including my Aunt Carol. They all told me, "You look SO beautiful!"
I tried not to cry and give them all a big hug in my tight dress I could barely breathe in, lol. Then Aunt Carol said, "You should really let your Dad see you." I looked at her confused, as the words didn't make sense. She continued, "Your Dad looks amazing and so do you. If you see each other for very first time at the top of the aisle, you will both lose it too much to even walk together!"
So, they went to get my Dad.
Sure enough, as he walked in to the bridal room, he and I both lost it! I had never seen him look so handsome, and his little girl was getting married. All his sisters watched us hug and cry. They shed tears also as they witnessed this amazing, beautiful, special, emotional moment between father and daughter.
My proud Dad and I :)
My Aunt Carol was SO right. If I had seen him when we were first to meet up at the top of the aisle, we each wouldn't have been able to handle it. It was THE single best advice I received about my wedding day, and I am very thankful my Aunt Carol shared that with me. I now share this amazing advice with others.
Two years later, Aunt Carol would help me again.
In 2007, my Dad passed away. As I stood in the kitchen, with my Mom sitting beside me as I held her, I made the extremely painful phone calls to his brothers, sisters, and friends to tell them the news. I called my Uncle Charlie and told him the sad news about his brother. Although the phone call was shocking, he helped me out by calling a few people, so I wouldn't have to be the only one to call everyone. While my Dad was sick and not healthy, his passing was still unexpected.
About 30-60 minutes later, my Aunt Carol calls. "I know you are busy, but I want to tell you that if your Dad had a life insurance policy...." I interrupted, "A small one." She shared, "Well, the funeral home will pay for the expenses through the life insurance policy. You wont have to pay anything, and the life insurance company and the funeral home will handle all the paperwork."
"Really?" I asked.
"Yes, and that will also be the avenue that the life insurance company is informed of his passing."
No one had ever passed away that close to me, so I had NO idea this was the case. I hadn't even thought about how we would pay for the cremation. Everything was still a shock, because not only did he pass unexpectedly, my Mom and I found him passed away. So, I wasn't thinking too clear.
I called the funeral home, gave them the info, and all was taken care of; just like my Aunt said.
She helped me out SO much.
You have to understand that because we live in separate cities, I don't really keep in touch with my Aunt Carol or even see her. She just seems to pop up with the best advice, at the perfect times, at the most critical points of my life.
I promise you that if I was to have a child, she would call me and tell me something no else had said to me to help me have a smooth delivery. She's like my Guardian Angel of Life. Shes slips in and out at the most important parts of my life, and offers advice and knowledge like no other.
And there's more:
When my Mom was in a "rehab facility" (i.e., nursing home), my Aunt called and gave me advice about medicare and medicaid. My Aunt was now an office manager of a nursing home and knew the ins and outs of the policy/paperwork.
And when my dear Mom passed in August 2011, my best friend in the world and my reason for living, she had been sent to hospice with me by her side. My Aunt Carol did THE one thing I needed: She called, asked if I needed anything, knew I wanted to be alone with her, and didn't bother me again. She recognized to not keep me on the phone, just to quickly offer her assistance if I needed anything, and to not make things worse by forcing her way to come see us. She recognized my Mom and I would be best together, alone, just the two of us. But, Aunt Carol still let me know she was there if I needed to talk.
The reason why this sticks out to me, is because several family members were insistent that they come to be with me in hospice with my Mom. It put me in a VERY awkward position to tell them no. I needed to be spending quality time with the last hours with my Mom, not on the phone with people who all of a sudden wanted to be there for us.
As I look back at all the pivotal times in my life that she has helped me, I am amazed and flattered and THANKFUL she is part of the Bailey family, also. I cannot begin to express without crying how much she has helped me through tough times, happy times, and important points in my life.
Me and Momma
Her husband is now helping me. I am all alone without Mom, no one else because I am an only child. My Uncle Charlie follows me on facebook! He "likes" my funny photos or he comments on my sad posts about the loss of my Mom that still hurts. I feel like he's watching over me for my Mom and Dad, just by simple little clicks of the "like" button. He's the only Bailey Aunt or Uncle that does that almost every other day and I can't even begin to express how much the simple gesture means to me that he keeps up with me.
The whole Bailey family is wonderful! I hate to single anyone out as my cousin Kelly is amazing and my other aunts are truly awesome, it's just that my Aunt Carol and Uncle Charlie seem to take care of me. They are gifts from God.
Aunt Carol and Uncle Bailey: THANK YOU! And, I love you.
Uncle Charlie and Aunt Carol, circa 2007
Friday, May 4, 2012
BoatLift - Video about 9/11
Get your hankeys. Very moving untold stories of resilience during 9/11.
Tom Hanks narrates the epic story of the 9/11 boatlift that evacuated half a million people from the stricken piers and seawalls of Lower Manhattan.
Tom Hanks narrates the epic story of the 9/11 boatlift that evacuated half a million people from the stricken piers and seawalls of Lower Manhattan.
Thursday, May 3, 2012
Touching Words from Work Friends About Mom
When my Mom passed on August 19th (2011) (the hardest day of my life), my boss sent this email out the next day to let my coworkers know:
Then a coworker emailed me later that day:
I miss my Mom SO much! Mother's Day is around the corner and I think it might kill me. :(
"I share with sadness that Melinda's mother passed away last
night. She had been in ICU since early last week, following major hip
surgery. Many of you know that Melinda had been the primary caregiver
for her mother over the past few years, and she'd tirelessly dedicated
her time and energy to the welfare of her chronically ill mom. I think
her courage through all this has been pretty inspirational, frankly. "
Then a coworker emailed me later that day:
"Sorry to hear about the passing of your mom. You were a true hero in
doing everything that you could to keep your mother happy and to take
care of her during the final years. It is a tough battle doing this by
yourself. Throughout the entire ordeal, you always kept a wonderful
balance of work and taking care of your mother. She is in a better
place now, and you can take solace in knowing that you did all you could
for her. You really did. If there is anything that I can do for you
in the days or weeks ahead, let me know."
I miss my Mom SO much! Mother's Day is around the corner and I think it might kill me. :(
My Mom, 5 years ago when she was healthy.
Wednesday, May 2, 2012
The Bug Man
My Mom did not leave the house, except when I drove her to her doc appts. We would occasionally go to Walmart, because they had a scooter she could use. She was embarrassed she had to wear an oxygen line and have an oxygen bottle with her at all times, and she was too weak to walk.
So, she didn't have many friends. My neighbor came to visit her, I lived with her, her nurse came once a week (that she adored), and then there's The Bug Man.
My Mom either liked you, or didn't. If her favorite nurse couldn't come by and a temp came instead, my Mom would be short, snappy, and rude. She wanted her favorite nurse that made her feel comfortable and loved. Not someone who just took vitals with no personality or kindness.
Although I never met him, my Mom mentioned The Bug Man to me several times. Todd visited 4 times a year for 3 years and he took the time to talk to her. She enjoyed seeing him, even for those few times. She's a talker if she liked you and because she wasn't around people a lot, I'm sure she talked Todd's ear off! :)
Todd happened to come by the house for an appt, the same week my Mom passed. I was home, trying to find my lost way through the empty, lonely house when he rang the door bell.
8 months later, I leave him a note along with the check and tell him simply, "I miss my Mom so much."
He left me this note, which makes me cry every time I re-read it:
So, she didn't have many friends. My neighbor came to visit her, I lived with her, her nurse came once a week (that she adored), and then there's The Bug Man.
My Mom either liked you, or didn't. If her favorite nurse couldn't come by and a temp came instead, my Mom would be short, snappy, and rude. She wanted her favorite nurse that made her feel comfortable and loved. Not someone who just took vitals with no personality or kindness.
Although I never met him, my Mom mentioned The Bug Man to me several times. Todd visited 4 times a year for 3 years and he took the time to talk to her. She enjoyed seeing him, even for those few times. She's a talker if she liked you and because she wasn't around people a lot, I'm sure she talked Todd's ear off! :)
Todd happened to come by the house for an appt, the same week my Mom passed. I was home, trying to find my lost way through the empty, lonely house when he rang the door bell.
To see his reaction to the news that my Mom passed, told my heart just how much he cared for her, will miss her, and enjoyed their talks.
8 months later, I leave him a note along with the check and tell him simply, "I miss my Mom so much."
He left me this note, which makes me cry every time I re-read it:
(click photo to enlarge)
Sunday, April 22, 2012
Looks And Women
My Mom always cared about my opinion and what I thought about her clothes and make-up. Even when she got older (in her 60s), she still cared about her looks, and my approval or not.
I'd pick her up from the house, be rushed because I was late taking her to one of her many doctor appts. She'd sit there quiet in the car while I raced down the streets, and finally she couldn't stand it, "Is this blouse okay?" (it was usually one of mine)
I'd glance over, "Looks great, Mom."
I'd try to concentrate back on the road because we were late and there was traffic, and she'd have another question for me, that she asked in a child-like, innocent voice, "and what about my make up?"
I'd glance again and reply, "It looks fine, Mom. I like it."
Then she'd smile as she turned to gaze out the window.
Then, "Are you sure? I tried a new eyeshadow."
"Yes, Mom. Really." Too worried to tell her the green wasn't the BEST color, or else she'd make me turn around and drive her back home.
My Mom would even wear her wigs to the Emergency Rooms. Or not want to me to take her to the ER if she hadn't had a bath. "Mom, you really need to go, who cares about a bath," I'd stress to her. She would tell me, "Just bathe me tonight after you get off of work, then I'll go in tomorrow." Most times, that meant she would put me off giving her a bath, and a couple of days would go by and her breathing would get too bad and I would have to call 911 to take her in because I couldn't get her to the car by myself.
She always cared so much what others thought of her. I finally told her the truth one day, "Mom, no one cares about how you look, we are all too busy worrying how WE look." The running joke was, "Not everything is about you. "
I really tried to stress to her that people worried more about themselves; and that they prolly didn't even notice her. But, I do wish I would have looked over at her closely EVERY TIME we went somewhere. That *I* initiated words of encouragement about her appearance and expressed something good about her appearance - her wig, lipstick, clothes, jeans, foundation. I now wish I would give her what she yearned for most - comfort from her only daughter that she looked okay.
I seriously meant it that my Mom would wear her wigs to the Emergency Room. They'd wheel her down the hallway on a gurney for an x-ray of her lungs, and her wig would move sideways and she'd try to fix it, like no one ever noticed. ;)
One time I visited my Grandmother in a nursing community in Georgia. That particular day, they rounded up all the elderly folks on a bus and shuffled them to a big department store, before it was open to the public. They served orange juice and a small snack to the group of fine, distinguished, very old, wrinkled men and women. I was astonished that the only place in the store with helpers was the cosmetics counter! Here were 80+ year-old women with deep wrinkles, buying wrinkle creams and solutions. I was mortified at the ladies behind the counter taking my Grandma's money and her friends.
Someone told me once, "It doesn't matter how old a woman gets, they ALWAYS want to look good." My Mom enjoyed still trying to look her best in a hospital bed away from home, even though it was tough. I would comb her hair, bring her emery boards for her nails, wash her face a night for her.
I know I cannot go out of the house without mascara and lipstick (I look scary), but I do wonder if one day I wont care. Thirty years from now (if I'm unlucky/lucky) to be alive, will I still wonder about my haircut and want to put on makeup?
Remember, though, "Everyone is too busy worrying about how they look, rather than how you look."
My Mom was an obese child. Her nickname was "Toni Toni two by four, can't get through the bathroom door, so she did it on the floor."
She was made fun of her WHOLE childhood and therefore, she was obsessed with her weight as an adult. If she gained weight from the steroids she had to take for her emphysema, she would literally not want to leave the house. She was miserable until she got back down to a size 8, and then upset she wasn't her size 4 that she was most her adult life.
It makes sense why I also care a lot about how I look, because that's what I learned from her as a child; what I witnessed obsessively. I also know so many other women that their happiness is directly dependent on their looks (how they think others see themselves) - whether via attractiveness, clothes, or weight. Usually, our weight the most.
We YEARN to hear from others if we look okay, new blouse, etc. Compliments can make or break a girls spirit. Sad, isn't it?
My Mom was very lucky in that she didn't look her age. You would only know she was prolly in her 50s/60s if you saw her real hair color under the wigs. She used Neutrogena wrinkle cream and she had no crows feet or deep wrinkles at all. Lucky bitch. Gosh I miss her with all my heart. What I wouldn't give to tell her I love the shirt she chose to wear, give her a big long hug, and help her wash her face so she can put on her wrinkle cream.
I'd pick her up from the house, be rushed because I was late taking her to one of her many doctor appts. She'd sit there quiet in the car while I raced down the streets, and finally she couldn't stand it, "Is this blouse okay?" (it was usually one of mine)
I'd glance over, "Looks great, Mom."
I'd try to concentrate back on the road because we were late and there was traffic, and she'd have another question for me, that she asked in a child-like, innocent voice, "and what about my make up?"
I'd glance again and reply, "It looks fine, Mom. I like it."
Then she'd smile as she turned to gaze out the window.
Then, "Are you sure? I tried a new eyeshadow."
"Yes, Mom. Really." Too worried to tell her the green wasn't the BEST color, or else she'd make me turn around and drive her back home.
My Mom would even wear her wigs to the Emergency Rooms. Or not want to me to take her to the ER if she hadn't had a bath. "Mom, you really need to go, who cares about a bath," I'd stress to her. She would tell me, "Just bathe me tonight after you get off of work, then I'll go in tomorrow." Most times, that meant she would put me off giving her a bath, and a couple of days would go by and her breathing would get too bad and I would have to call 911 to take her in because I couldn't get her to the car by myself.
She always cared so much what others thought of her. I finally told her the truth one day, "Mom, no one cares about how you look, we are all too busy worrying how WE look." The running joke was, "Not everything is about you. "
I really tried to stress to her that people worried more about themselves; and that they prolly didn't even notice her. But, I do wish I would have looked over at her closely EVERY TIME we went somewhere. That *I* initiated words of encouragement about her appearance and expressed something good about her appearance - her wig, lipstick, clothes, jeans, foundation. I now wish I would give her what she yearned for most - comfort from her only daughter that she looked okay.
I seriously meant it that my Mom would wear her wigs to the Emergency Room. They'd wheel her down the hallway on a gurney for an x-ray of her lungs, and her wig would move sideways and she'd try to fix it, like no one ever noticed. ;)
One time I visited my Grandmother in a nursing community in Georgia. That particular day, they rounded up all the elderly folks on a bus and shuffled them to a big department store, before it was open to the public. They served orange juice and a small snack to the group of fine, distinguished, very old, wrinkled men and women. I was astonished that the only place in the store with helpers was the cosmetics counter! Here were 80+ year-old women with deep wrinkles, buying wrinkle creams and solutions. I was mortified at the ladies behind the counter taking my Grandma's money and her friends.
Someone told me once, "It doesn't matter how old a woman gets, they ALWAYS want to look good." My Mom enjoyed still trying to look her best in a hospital bed away from home, even though it was tough. I would comb her hair, bring her emery boards for her nails, wash her face a night for her.
I know I cannot go out of the house without mascara and lipstick (I look scary), but I do wonder if one day I wont care. Thirty years from now (if I'm unlucky/lucky) to be alive, will I still wonder about my haircut and want to put on makeup?
Remember, though, "Everyone is too busy worrying about how they look, rather than how you look."
My Mom was an obese child. Her nickname was "Toni Toni two by four, can't get through the bathroom door, so she did it on the floor."
She was made fun of her WHOLE childhood and therefore, she was obsessed with her weight as an adult. If she gained weight from the steroids she had to take for her emphysema, she would literally not want to leave the house. She was miserable until she got back down to a size 8, and then upset she wasn't her size 4 that she was most her adult life.
It makes sense why I also care a lot about how I look, because that's what I learned from her as a child; what I witnessed obsessively. I also know so many other women that their happiness is directly dependent on their looks (how they think others see themselves) - whether via attractiveness, clothes, or weight. Usually, our weight the most.
We YEARN to hear from others if we look okay, new blouse, etc. Compliments can make or break a girls spirit. Sad, isn't it?
My Mom was very lucky in that she didn't look her age. You would only know she was prolly in her 50s/60s if you saw her real hair color under the wigs. She used Neutrogena wrinkle cream and she had no crows feet or deep wrinkles at all. Lucky bitch. Gosh I miss her with all my heart. What I wouldn't give to tell her I love the shirt she chose to wear, give her a big long hug, and help her wash her face so she can put on her wrinkle cream.
Wednesday, April 18, 2012
Happiness Is a Journey, Not a Destination
Even though I live like this already, doesn't hurt to share and/or be reminded:
We convince ourselves that life will be better after we get married, have a baby, then another. Then we're frustrated that the kids aren't old enough and we'll be more content when they are. After that, we're frustrated that we have teenagers to deal with. We'll certainly be happy when they're out of that stage.
We tell ourselves that our life will be complete when our spouse gets his or her act together, when we get a nicer car, are able to go on a nice vacation, when we retire.
The truth is, there's no better time to be happy than right now. If not now, when?
Your life will always be filled with challenges. It's best to admit this to yourself and decide to be happy anyway.
One of my favorite quotes comes from Alfred D. Souza. He said, "For a long time it had seemed to me that life was about to begin - real life. But there was always some obstacle in the way, something to be gotten through first, some unfinished business, time still to be served, or a debt to be paid. Then life would begin. At last it dawned on me that these obstacles were my life."
This perspective has helped me to see that there is no way to happiness. Happiness is the way. So, treasure every moment that you have and treasure it more because you shared it with someone special, special enough to spend your time with...and remember that time waits for no one.
So, stop waiting until you finish school, until you go back to school, until you lose ten pounds, until you gain ten pounds, until you have kids, until your kids leave the house, until you start work, until you retire, until you get married, until you get divorced, until Friday night, until Sunday morning, until you get a new car or home, until your car or home is paid off, until spring, until summer, until fall, until winter, until you're off welfare, until the first or fifteenth, until your song comes on, until you've had a drink, until you've sobered up, until you die, until you're born again to decide that there is no better time than right now to be happy.
Happiness is a journey, not a destination.
We convince ourselves that life will be better after we get married, have a baby, then another. Then we're frustrated that the kids aren't old enough and we'll be more content when they are. After that, we're frustrated that we have teenagers to deal with. We'll certainly be happy when they're out of that stage.
We tell ourselves that our life will be complete when our spouse gets his or her act together, when we get a nicer car, are able to go on a nice vacation, when we retire.
The truth is, there's no better time to be happy than right now. If not now, when?
Your life will always be filled with challenges. It's best to admit this to yourself and decide to be happy anyway.
One of my favorite quotes comes from Alfred D. Souza. He said, "For a long time it had seemed to me that life was about to begin - real life. But there was always some obstacle in the way, something to be gotten through first, some unfinished business, time still to be served, or a debt to be paid. Then life would begin. At last it dawned on me that these obstacles were my life."
This perspective has helped me to see that there is no way to happiness. Happiness is the way. So, treasure every moment that you have and treasure it more because you shared it with someone special, special enough to spend your time with...and remember that time waits for no one.
So, stop waiting until you finish school, until you go back to school, until you lose ten pounds, until you gain ten pounds, until you have kids, until your kids leave the house, until you start work, until you retire, until you get married, until you get divorced, until Friday night, until Sunday morning, until you get a new car or home, until your car or home is paid off, until spring, until summer, until fall, until winter, until you're off welfare, until the first or fifteenth, until your song comes on, until you've had a drink, until you've sobered up, until you die, until you're born again to decide that there is no better time than right now to be happy.
Happiness is a journey, not a destination.
Introvert
My boyfriend is an introvert. I need to remember the above points! It will help our relationship (and he'll prolly not get as snippy with me when I do # 7, esp).
Tuesday, April 3, 2012
Random Acts of Kindess
I'll never forget this random act of kindness I witnessed. It may seem minor, but it was an amazing gesture of kindness.
I was out for lunch with about 20 coworkers - some visiting from other cities, some from my office- and we went to eat at a nearby restaurant within walking distance. We had to wait for everyone to pay their tab, so about half of us walked out of the restaurant, and were standing outside.
A parking meter police guy was walking around, checking the meters. One of the meters was expired, and one of the guys in my group walked over, asked the policeman if he could put coins in the meter, and the cop said yes.
My coworker didn't know who owned the car, but he put in 50 cents and saved the guy from a parking ticket!
I admit I was in complete shock. Why didn't I think of that? Why didn't anyone else in the group think of it? The rest of us stood there watching the cop start to write a ticket, but this coworker walked right up and helped out a stranger.
Because we had to wait so long, eventually the guy who owns the car came out and he was told what happened and he thanked my coworker.
I know it really seems minor, but it was awesome. And, this happened about 5-7 years ago!
After I shared this story on a forum, a friend shared his story. It was so moving, I HAVE to share it!
(if you are friends with me, you might know him. His initials are M.V.N.)
When I was young… maybe 8 or 9 years old, I lived in Winona, MN. We were pretty poor and often we'd go shopping at the local Salvation Army store. They had all manner of items from toys to clothing… well, mostly clothing… and for less than 5 dollars, you could pretty much buy anything in the store. In fact, one dollar would go a long way. I remember having a bunch of change in my pocket, maybe 60 cents at the most and feeling pretty good about my prospects.
When you're young, you watch a lot of people. In fact, children are naturally very curious… and on this particular day, I happened to be watching the lady at the cash register. I saw a very old man walk up with a black, silk scarf and ask the lady at the register how much it was, commenting that it was for his wife. The lady at the register replied to him that it was 5 cents. At this, the man reached into his pocket and pulled out a very old and very worn wallet… and pulled out a single penny. This was all he had… and I was struck by how poor he was at that moment. I almost offered to buy the scarf for him, but the lady at the register kindly told him that the penny was enough. He gave her the penny and he left with his scarf.
Now I was young, so I don't remember the situation perfectly, but I do know that this moment in time affected me greatly. I witnessed two great things in a single moment… a man who loved his wife so greatly that he spent his last penny on a scarf for her and the lady at the register showing great kindness by recognizing that selling him the scarf for a single penny was the right thing to do.
To this day, I keep this moment in my mind and always try to love unconditionally and always try to show kindness to others.
I was out for lunch with about 20 coworkers - some visiting from other cities, some from my office- and we went to eat at a nearby restaurant within walking distance. We had to wait for everyone to pay their tab, so about half of us walked out of the restaurant, and were standing outside.
A parking meter police guy was walking around, checking the meters. One of the meters was expired, and one of the guys in my group walked over, asked the policeman if he could put coins in the meter, and the cop said yes.
My coworker didn't know who owned the car, but he put in 50 cents and saved the guy from a parking ticket!
I admit I was in complete shock. Why didn't I think of that? Why didn't anyone else in the group think of it? The rest of us stood there watching the cop start to write a ticket, but this coworker walked right up and helped out a stranger.
Because we had to wait so long, eventually the guy who owns the car came out and he was told what happened and he thanked my coworker.
I know it really seems minor, but it was awesome. And, this happened about 5-7 years ago!
After I shared this story on a forum, a friend shared his story. It was so moving, I HAVE to share it!
(if you are friends with me, you might know him. His initials are M.V.N.)
When I was young… maybe 8 or 9 years old, I lived in Winona, MN. We were pretty poor and often we'd go shopping at the local Salvation Army store. They had all manner of items from toys to clothing… well, mostly clothing… and for less than 5 dollars, you could pretty much buy anything in the store. In fact, one dollar would go a long way. I remember having a bunch of change in my pocket, maybe 60 cents at the most and feeling pretty good about my prospects.
When you're young, you watch a lot of people. In fact, children are naturally very curious… and on this particular day, I happened to be watching the lady at the cash register. I saw a very old man walk up with a black, silk scarf and ask the lady at the register how much it was, commenting that it was for his wife. The lady at the register replied to him that it was 5 cents. At this, the man reached into his pocket and pulled out a very old and very worn wallet… and pulled out a single penny. This was all he had… and I was struck by how poor he was at that moment. I almost offered to buy the scarf for him, but the lady at the register kindly told him that the penny was enough. He gave her the penny and he left with his scarf.
Now I was young, so I don't remember the situation perfectly, but I do know that this moment in time affected me greatly. I witnessed two great things in a single moment… a man who loved his wife so greatly that he spent his last penny on a scarf for her and the lady at the register showing great kindness by recognizing that selling him the scarf for a single penny was the right thing to do.
To this day, I keep this moment in my mind and always try to love unconditionally and always try to show kindness to others.
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