Where were you at 2:22 p.m. on 2-2-22?  Hmmm … I was at work on a great Tuesday afternoon and thankful for the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of our clients.

Think on that for just a moment.

With each new day, we are provided an opportunity to do great and amazing things.  We have the power to brighten someone’s day, whether it’s by casting a warm smile their way, offering a sincere compliment, or praying with them before parting ways.

This opportunity presents itself when your eyes open in the morning before your feet ever hit the floor, and it is available to you right on up to when you close your eyes at the end of the day for a good night’s rest.

Do you take advantage of the opportunities given to you, or do you find yourself in complacency?

We can ask this question of ourselves in the work atmosphere as well as in our home lives.  Often times we are nicer to strangers than we are to people in our own household.  Why is this?  Because we know we can get away with it with people we are closer to?  Because we know they will forgive us?  Why aren’t we striving harder to show the ones we love that we love them?!  Sure, they “know,” but it is always a good idea to SHOW it and SAY it as well.  Everyone likes to hear the words, and it’s even better when your actions line up with the words you speak.

Today we gave our youngest daughter balloons and a card that said, “There you go again – brightening up our world and God’s just by being you!” – just because.  There was no special occasion other than wishing to celebrate her and bless her with a little surprise.

Do you wait for a special occasion to express your appreciation for someone in your life?  Or do you enjoy surprising them “just because?”  Have you gotten to a place where you feel it isn’t needed – well, think again!  Some times it is truly the little things that mean so much!  A person can be having a really bad day or be upset about a situation, and the smallest gesture can make their heart smile and soul sing!  That was the case this afternoon, and I’m SO thankful we planned this surprise earlier in the day not even knowing she wasn’t happy about a certain situation with someone close to her.  God knew, and I believe He laid this on my heart – God does whisper to us, if we only listen!  Thank you, God!  It was just what she needed, when she needed it, too!).

If you find yourself feeling too comfortable, whether it’s at work or in your home life with your relationships, get out of the mindset and place of security where you don’t feel like you have to put forth much effort now.  Strive to do better, to want more than being stagnant.  Use the opportunities given to you!  Those around you will appreciate it far more than you will ever know!