With 2019 just around the corner here is a simple affirmation you can use each day in the coming year…             “BE THE REASON FOR SOMEONE’S FIRST SMILE OF THE DAY…”           Simple huh? Yea, well I guess life is kinda like that sometimes, isn’t it?     Happy New Year Peace Gregg

    ~Ahhh, the family gathered all together laughing, hugging enjoying each other’s love.     ~The Christmas Tree decorated with more gifts than you can count underneath.     ~The dinner table and every available inch of counter space chock full of food from turkey to ham to casseroles made with family recipes plus deserts and pies.     This is how so many see the Holidays. However, many find it to be the exact opposite, not because they’re a Scrooge but because for one reason or another, this is where life has led them this year. I’ve put together a few of the most common Seasonal challenges. There are more but one step at a time…     Money is usually short and the pressure to spend it is never more….. (This isn’t news to anyone but especially now, money is a very scarce commodity for some. So many will nod their head and say “Boy you don’t have to tell me!” Trouble is, if you have money in your checking account or even have a savings account, you might need to be reminded. There are plenty of people that we’d never imagine that have no money in the bank account. By “no money in their account,” I mean none at all. Moreover, at the end of the week or month they make the decision between food or medications. So, even a $5 breakfast or going in on a gift can make a major impact on their life. Don’t assume! Pay attention and actively look for signs. If you see some then adjust your plans to avoid undue stress and possibly embarrassment for them.)     We’re told that Holiday gatherings are things we should look forward to attending….. (Sometimes they are and sometimes they aren’t. “Loving” people can sometimes turn into arguing, yelling factions in the same house. Sometimes loved ones that were mainstays are gone thru divorce, Military service or death. The same traditions that were always celebrated, are so much different and many times  worse. Remember that we can’t do anything about others, if they want to fight and make an ass out of themselves, that’s up to them. We can only control how we react. Find something and/or someone who puts a smile on your face. Stay close with them. When others are fighting or crying remember that it’s not a crime for you to smile or laugh…even if it’s only on the inside. If you’re missing a loved one or pet and need to stay home, then stay home! Just make sure you understand the difference between need and want. Maybe you’d like to give it a shot, so give yourself an “out” by saying you might need to leave early. Then, play it by ear. If it turns out you need to leave because it’s too much you have your opening. If you want to stay then this gives you the option. When it comes to carrying on traditions without those who […]