Surviving the Storm: A Personal Perspective

Every now and then I feel it helpful to throw in my two cents regarding the state of affairs, in this case the economic crisis. Because I am an optomist, I believe that we all must pay attention and find the lessons that we can learn from all of this turmoil and apply those lessons to our own lives...and wallets! Although I promote "giving more" I fear I don't put enough emphasis on the gifts that can't be bought.

While watching David Blaine last night (yes, I'm a huge magic freak!) he spoke of his mother who had worked three jobs to support him while growing up. She was a single mother and unfortunately, passed away and never got to see his successes first hand. But what he was grateful for, he said, was that she never gave him things..."she gave me the gift of her"...her continued unconditional support allowed him to believe he could do anything. Her nurturing and inspiring spirit led David along a remarkable path of committment, stamina, and passion. That is pretty powerful stuff...

So when you take out your checkbook and examine your financial situation before you embark on your holiday shopping spree this year, just remember that there is NOTHING that you can BUY that could even come close to giving the gift of YOU this year. Whatever form that takes, it can have miraculous and "magical" results. Happy Gifting!

Appropriate Product Pic of the Day:

Live Good Gift Book

A good life is not lived by chance, but by choice. This collection of inspiring and hopeful quotations reminds us that making a difference in the world is one of the reasons we're here. Give it to people who do good work, and who work to do good.

$14.95 from the Lemonade Stand