Stop and Smell the Roses

Forgive me if I periodically get a little "sappy". The last few months have afforded me the gift of being able to step back and appreciate all the blessings in my life. I think I've always done a pretty good job at this but I liken it to walking past a lovely garden on your way to "get somewhere" and you take a passing glance and "get" that it's lovely vs. having a little time to stop and smell the roses so to speak. There's nothing like it.

On Sunday I went to a wedding and watched two young people promise their lives to each other and then later that same day I went to the wake of a fireman who died far too early. I kept thinking that these types of experiences are really part of the rich tapestry of our lives and none of it should be taken for granted.

Each of us has an opportunity every day to change someone else's situation. Maybe it's just a passing compliment or it's tough feedback delivered with the intention of moving someone forward. Seeing that we're all human and deciding to make a difference, however small is incredibly powerful and probably the most truly meaningful contribution we can make in this life.

My wish for anyone reading this is that you will take the time to smell the roses whatever that means for you and that you'll be a positive force. It's my wish for myself as well.