In the fall of 2014, I had an idea. I would make a list of important things I wanted my children to know. Being a serious list-maker in general, this idea posed a fun and interesting challenge. Before I knew it, the list grew to over thirty items. Then, each day I posted a thought for them until they were all used up.
This week I’m branching off slightly from my regular devotional to share my “Thirty-three Days of Thoughts” in hopes that it might inspire you and your loved ones as well. Enjoy!
- Every day is a gift; enjoy the unwrapping.
- Dreams are the flight path to beautiful realities.
- Be merciful; you never know the mountains others have scaled.
- Whether insult or praise, linger briefly on what others say of you.
- A well-timed hug removes the need for words.
- Spend time with those you love, even when you have no time.
- Do what is right, even if no one else is.
- Finish what you start; it builds character.
- Be kind and expect nothing in return.
- Words are powerful; use them wisely.
- Nothing worth attaining is easy.
- Smile at passing strangers, especially children, teenagers, and the elderly – you make them feel less invisible.
- Respect yourself and others in word and deed.
- Be gracious to everyone whether they deserve it or not.
- Believe in miracles.
- Stop and smell the roses; literally and figuratively.
- Forgive AND bless your enemies.
- Try difficult things.
- There is no suitable substitute for hard work.
- Keep your word.
- Things need to be broken in order to be fixed.
- Joy can be found even amid the darkest days.
- Choose to be thankful; especially in trials.
- Be a faithful friend.
- Do good when no one is looking.
- Be honest, even if it hurts.
- Say I love you, often.
- Say I’m sorry when you are wrong.
- Listen more than you speak.
- Be slow to get angry and quick to forgive.
- Be polite.
- Be willing to go last.
- Put God first.
And one more thought written as a blessing over you:
May you measure your worth not so much by who you or others say you are but rather by Whose you are!
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- Pick one of the Thirty-three thoughts you think presents the most challenge to you and be mindful of it this week.
- Try a Thirty-three Day Challenge and each day incorporate a “thought” into your actions and responses that day.