I recently went to The Brewton Standard celebration for their new Well Magazine. I am a guest columnist for this magazine which will be published quarterly. It is a beautiful magazine showcasing so many accomplished and beautiful people in our area. I encourage all of you to subscribe to this magazine by sending $16 for in-state or $20 for out-of-state to " Newspapers Inc., P.O. Box 887, Brewton, Alabama 36426. Congratulations to Kerry Whipple Bean, Clay Lisenby, and all of the staff for a beautiful job.
I called someone to tell them about the article (I was excited - I've never been a columnist before) and the first response was "are you getting paid?". So often value is only on the dollar and so little emphasis is placed on accomplishment. Do not get me wrong, I understand that money is necessary and important. Please do not email me or write notes about how fortunate I am. I also understand how lucky and blessed I am. I am thankful to a father who financially did well and provided for his family. This is important. I was also blessed with a father who valued community, sharing with others, and giving back - not only in money but in time and energy. We hear about this in our churches, schools, and communities. What about our work?
Max Lucado recently wrote an article about inspiration and sharing our inspiration with others in the workplace. In talks about Jesus catching fish with passion and enjoyment. Are we also sharing our gifts in our workplace? I believe that we can. Are you a mother? Hairstylist? Nail tech? Engineer? Baker? Teacher? Priest? Youth Minister? Friend? Secretary? Coach? Millworker? Nurse? Doctor? You are all important and touching people in ways that you do not know.
I would like to share some of my personal experiences of those who have inspired me in simple ways. Thank you to Debbie Stokes who smiled, danced, and had fun with an entire class of WILD fourth graders at our class party. She is an example to our children (and us parents) that we can study, learn, and yes - have fun together. She is patient, kind, and exhibits "tough love" when needed. She shows us that teaching is a gift to be shared each and every day.
I would like to thank Vivian Layton for her example of strength, friendship, and constant leadership at the YMCA. She is always willing to "step up to the plate" when asked to, and is always helping others. She is extraordinary with the preschool children and parents, as well as YMCA staff and members. We are blessed to have her gifts in our community.
I would like to thank the nurses at DW McMillan outpatient for all of their hard work and caring attention. They are excellent with any problem that may arise and attentive to all of their patients. They are willing to stay late and go the extra mile at all times. They have the gift of helping patients (and spouses) with humor and grace. You are a gift and I am thankful.
I am thankful to an amazing car dealer in town for his gift of friendship. Chip Peach has walked this journey with my family without complaint and with gusto. He answers calls and listens to complaints. He takes children everywhere and carries luggage. He has the gift of loyalty and I am thankful.
Everyday people can touch our lives in important ways on a daily basis. At the end of the day the things that matter are the gifts that we share. So often these gifts occur with "everyday" moments. We take for granted how much these moments can inspire those around us. Share those moments with those around you and look for inspiration in all that you do - including your work.
Blessings -
Emmie
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