My friend Jamie emailed me this picture taken on a recent visit to Colorado. Two of her daughters are taking a walk with her grandfather. What a precious sight to see! The contrast between a well worn hand and the smooth small hand of an innocent child looking up at great grandpa. I can just imagine the conversation. Having met this man myself, I'm sure he is thoughtful in what he says. I see Mary coming up from behind as she explores a bit on her own. After all, she is growing up. How many older people take time to encourage and teach the y…

How do other people see you? Are you an encourager or someone who always seems to find faults? Life can be tough and I for one, love to surround myself with encouragers. I feel good around them and it motivates me to continue on, despite the challenges. I am grateful for friends who will listen to me not only when I'm happy and enjoying life, but also when I am discouraged. I'm amazed at how energized I can become from a phone call, an email or a card just when I seem to need it. Friends can be like that! It motivates me to try to treat others t…

I made the choice to attend a reunion of many of my high school classmates. Although I graduated from Lindenhurst High School on Long Island, New York, many of my friends had since moved to Florida. Between email and the Classmates website, a weekend event was organized for all who lived in Florida or simply wished to fly in for the event. Since my dad, sister and brother all live in Florida, I thought I would combine a visit with them and spend time with old friends and was I ever glad I did. Since I graduated in 1971 (I know it was a long time ago!) …