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GRATIFYING THOUGHTS
Last night, while lying in bed and thinking about things as I often do before nodding off to sleep, my mind wandered back to the comments I received on my last entry. Oftentimes, after checking in here and reading the thoughts left by those who stop by to visit, I carry the memory of their words along with me as I go about my business during the day. When I have a quiet moment in my car, or maybe in line at the supermarket checkstand, they pop into my head again, bringing a smile to my face. I am grateful to know such generous people. I'm sure it's the same way for all of you who share a bit of yourselves in your journal sites, and are blessed with the kind thoughts and warm words of those who stop by to visit.
When you think about it, it's amazing what we can do with our words. We have the power to affect others in a very positive way. We can show each other concern, positive regard, a point of view, or even just share a laugh. We can validate each others feelings, and offer support. On our good days, our fellow journalers comments are a pleasant plus. On days when things are not so great, they can be essential to us as a way of keeping our spirits up until things improve. I can't imagine a more wonderful gift we can bestow on another human being than giving them the boost they might need to make it through another day. And we have all had those days.
As the subject of journal comments was running through my mind, I began to think of what I have learned, experienced and enjoyed since joining this community back in 2004. There isn't room to list everything that comes to mind, but here's a start:
1. The friendship of some wonderfully talented and generous people.
2. The knowledge that there are many loving, caring folks out there in the world.
3. Some fascinating conversations with individuals that I wouldn't have known otherwise.
4. Exposure to many differing opinions and ways of looking at the world.
5. The knowledge that people, although different, share many of the same trials and tribulations.
6. The knowledge that, while we may have very different lifestyles, we all have a common need to share with others in here.
7. That there are people who will take it upon themselves to pitch in and help others in this community, despite the fact that they have never met face to face. In some cases, they didn't even know of the person until a fellow journaler passed along the information. This is an incredible thing to think upon.
8. That the need for personal expression is universal.
9. That everybody is a writer.
10. That we share more similarities than we have differences.
I had no idea, when I joined this community two and a half years ago, of all that I would gain by being here. Thanks, and thanks, and many thanks.
onemoretina at 9:33:00 PM PST Blog about this entry |
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You have a huge estate, indeed! Such an insightful post, Tina. Words of wisdom, to be sure.
--Tom -
I just think it's natural that wonderful people get kind thoughts from others, so I'm glad you've gotten your share. Sleep well!
Jimmy -
Oh it's so true! I too find myself thinking of all the wonderful comments I recieve
here in the AOL journal community, in fact, I'm AMAZED at times, that folks
really care! Good entry, Joyce, thanks for Emily's words! ~Diane~ p.s. I have made a few new entry's, if you have time, stop by and leave a hello.
http://journals.aol.com/dizarra/StorysFromtheCityTalesFromt heSea/ -
Wonderful entry and I agree with everything you have said here. There is no place like J-Land! Hugs, Martha :-)
1/22/07 11:36 PM
Nikki