Listen

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Honestly, most of us are thinking about ourselves.  Let's just be real.  We are either thinking about how tomorrow will turn out , thinking about how we are feeling about tomorrow, thinking about what needs to be accomplished today, or possibly thinking about what the rest of the holiday season is going to look like...we are inside ourselves and our thoughts.   



It is ok.  It is 100% normal behavior for 99.9% of the world.  The other 0.1% are focused on not following the normal.  They are focused on not conforming to normal behaviors, but allowing God to change their thoughts from the inside out (Romans 12:2)  



If you want to be among the 0.1% it isn't too late. 

You can start right now to shift your thoughts on others.

Ask yourself what ONE thing you can do today to make a positive impact on someone else.  Look for ways to encourage and lift up without increasing stress.   

Instead of asking the typical questions, "Are you ready for the holidays?" or "How are you spending the holiday?" or "Who's cooking dinner this year?", you might say:



"Gosh, it is so good to see you!  Will you be able to find time to relax over the next few days?"  or,  "Are you looking forward to getting some extra sleep on your day off?"  Try to avoid holiday questions or family questions that can trigger a negative emotion.  Assume they will be by themselves and let them share their plans, thoughts, etc.  You keep asking questions based upon how they respond. 



Encouraging someone to take a hot bath (or nap), to discuss a book you might be reading, or to take a walk in the fresh air etc.. gets the focus off of the holiday and creates a focus on the moment and on the person you are talking to. 



Yes, the conversation may be longer than usual, but it's ok to slow the pace down to listen and serve.



Who knows?  You might just hear a need and be able to fill it.

With this in mind, I wanted to let you know that I have a "Prayer Request" page on my website.  You can find it here:



Prayer Request

Please let me know how I can pray for you this holiday season.  I truly believe that prayer is powerful and effective!  (James 5:16)



May your holiday be blessed and may you know how truly THANKFUL I am that you are a part of my life.

♥Carole