PureLoveQuotes.com
One of the most challenging (yet interesting) things about being a weekly blogger is coming up with fresh ideas. I like to write about Education and inspiration, so I pay close attention to events around me and around town, and I am also a keen observer everywhere I go. This morning, I had to go to the orthopedic surgeon for the third and final round of rooster comb shots for my knees. As I left the professional building and was walking to my car, I saw a petite elderly lady, I would guess about 90, taking her time as she came down a few steps at the nearby professional building. She was clutching the handrail and pausing a bit after each step. I was approaching her location when I saw her struggling, so I stopped to ask if I could lend a hand. This is the way the conversation went:
Dede: "Good morning on this beautiful day. May a lend you a hand?"
Lady: "Hello. No, thank you. I just need to take my time. I am OK, but everything just takes me longer now."
Dede: "I understand. Things are not as easy for me anymore either! Life was faster when we were 30!"
Lady: Please forgive me if I sounded like I was complaining, because I am not. I feel very lucky every day to wake up on this side of the grass!"
Dede: "I understand that! My husband died just after his 59th birthday. He was never sick in 30 years - not even a cold- and then he was diagnosed with stage 4 colon cancer. Life can throw you some real curve balls."
Lady" "I am so sorry for your loss. Yes, it is important to remain positive and appreciate what we have each day."
Dede: "Wonderful to talk to you, and I hope you have a great day."
Lady: "Thank you for your kindness and have a wonderful day. It was wonderful to speak with you."
This small encounter lifted me and set the tone for my day. I loved the positive attitude exhibited by the woman I met. Yes, her physical movements are somewhat limited. Yes, things take her longer than they used to take. Yes, she misses her youth. Yet, she still has a reverence for life and she is thankful to wake up each morning. It was refreshing to see someone who is showing gratitude for their life, rather than listening to someone who is a complainer and a victim. A positive attitude can go a long way in making a person happier with his or her own life. I know that each morning, I choose happiness and positivity, and that choice shapes my days and makes tham better.
Here's to the folks who choose to be positive! They spread joy to others!
As always, I welcome your comments and suggestions. Rittman Publishing, LLC ®
Visit Dede's web page for complete details on her award-winning book, STUDENT TEACHING: THE INSIDE SCOOP FROM A MASTER TEACHER. Many colleges have made the book required reading. Signed copies are available www.dederittman.com Dede is also a national speaker on The Three C's for Classroom success: Confidence, communication, and Creativity; Avoiding Teacher burnout; and many other inspirational topics.
I LOVE writing. And I love writing children's books- my newest passion. Although it will be a ton of work, I am looking forward to selling my books. Since I was a secondary teacher, I know that I have much to learn about elementary students, and I will have to follow my own advice and be my genuine self. However, I also know that I am passionate about helping kids who have to wear glasses, and that GRADY GETS GLASSES sends a positive message. I am willing to work hard and do all the things that also made me a successful teacher for 37
Teacher friends- let me know if you want me to read GRADY GETS GLASSES at your school. I am willing to come in to discuss the creative writing process, why writing is important, and personal fulfillment through writing, along with reading my book. I would appreciate the exposure, and I would make signed copies available for purchase in your classrooms following the reading. Please email me at dederittman@gmail.com The website www.gradygetsglasses.com now has plush Grady bunnies for sale!
Connect with Dede!
Twitter @dederittman
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