IF NOT YOU, WHO? CHANGING YOUR LIFE WITH WORDS - DAY 93

We all like to receive compliments and praise from others.  Parents, older siblings, grandparents, teachers, and friends can all build us up so that we feel much more capable and confident in our abilities.  When we enter the work force our superiors and colleagues can make us feel good about our contributions and the quality of our work.

What happens though if we don't have a supportive family or a large family?  What if we are shy and find it not so easy to make lots of friends.  What if our job is with people who are not generous with encouragement and praise?

Then we just have to do it ourselves.  In truth we know when we have done something well.  We are totally aware when we do the right thing.  We recognize when we meet challenges.  So if no one else is paying tribute to us, then we must do it ourselves.  I can do it if need be, and so can you.

Today's message is:

BUILD MYSELF UP!

St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital in Memphis, Tennessee

Today I received a solicitation from St. Jude's which was founded by the late entertainer Danny Thomas (father of Marlo Thomas). For many years I have been able to be a modest financial supporter of this marvelous institution and the wonderful care they provide to children. I especially laud them for providing care for children whether or not the parents are able to pay for such care. If ever I win the lottery (Reminder to self: Buy a ticket) I would be thrilled to make a huge contribution to St. Jude's. I must confess, however, that I can barely bring myself to watch their infomercials on television because seeing children suffering from terminal illness just breaks my heart. I am a devout coward when it comes to witnessing tragedies befalling children (and their parents), but I want to support organizations that can and do address, treat, cure, assist, and/or prevent any such tragedies. Some of you may be unfamiliar with what St. Jude's does, the criteria for being a patient receiving care, the warning signs of childhood cancer, and/or the amazing results they have achieved since opening their doors in 1962. If so, I encourage you to visit their website http://www.stjude.org. Also, if you want some delicious recipes visit www.stjude.org/gameday as today's solicitation included a recipe for Yum Yum Brownie Muffins which I am going to try this week. There are many worthwhile charities that help children, and certainly St. Jude's is one of the best as evidenced by their results.