The idea of National Spread Joy day, is to relieve us of the negativity, anger and hate that we are always being bombarded with through newsfeeds, politics, and social media. Have you noticed that lately people seem to have forgotten how to laugh? That’s because when all we hear are negative and hateful things, and bad reports it soon becomes all we can see. It divides us- and makes us draw back without even realizing (sometimes) that we are.
It also makes us more prone to depression and anxiety.
We can’t undo every negative thing in the world, but each one of us can do something today (or actually, any day we choose)- to help turn back the tide and bring joy and comfort to someone. All it takes is one (even tiny) candle to light up the darkness- so how could you celebrate National Spread Joy day?
Share helpful or uplifitng articles on your social media, smile and greet your neighbors, buy someone a coffee, ask someone how they’re doing or offer a helping hand where you see an opportunity, and above all, show honor where it is due, and be thankful.
You will make a difference in someone else’s day- but also in your own!
Mom- can you let that second cup of coffee wait? I just got all comfy and your knee makes a great pillow…
Just Thinking…
I’m sitting on my couch with the best cat in the world cuddled up warm and cozy with her head on my knee as I write this. And I can’t help but consider for a moment how life would be today if we had to stumble through every trial with no comfort or encouragement whatsoever.
With no friends, no warm hug when we’re feeling down, no smiles from passersby- no squirrels playing in the trees, or baby ducks in streams, no children playing outside- no one to care if we’re struggling, or in pain- or even dying. Life has always had it’s trials- but none more than the year 2020- 2022.
This year began for me with the loss of my husband of 40 years to a sudden stage 4 cancer diagnosis. I’m still struggling with the reality of it. A couple of nights ago I had a dream that I’m still trying to get out of my head- the first of it’s kind up until now.
In the dream, I was sitting on the carpet in the living room with two of our grand-daughters having a “tea party” with oreos, and goldfish crackers and playing a game. Then, my husband walked in the front door (looking normal and as he did before)- and looked down at me with his left hand on his right shoulder as if it was bothering him.
He said with a pleasant smile, “I know you’re busy, but…” And before he could finish the sentence, his face changed in front of me- to the way it looked seconds after he died. Ashen, with lifeless eyes. I remember the shock, and in the dream, I said- “but you’re dead!”
I woke up wondering why I had such a dream, and I still struggle to forget it.
As I remember this now, Sushi is snuggled sweetly next to me, purring and it’s so comforting. I’m thankful that I have her and Twilight to brighten my days, and the love of my family and friends. Thankful that I woke up this morning with my mental and physical abilities intact and that God has beautifully sustained me and provided for my needs. He has kept me from losing heart and falling into despair and lonlieness.
I’m aware that so many are also struggling with loss (still) or maybe will soon. And if not the loss of a loved one, or a beloved pet, just the constant anxiety of isolation, or fear for our future is more than most can bear.
I try when I post to make it lighthearted because our world is engulfed in sorrows and anger (insanity!) – and some are doing their best to pit us all against each other- and against our Savior. But I’m tired of ignoring the ‘elephant in the room.’
I have to let you all know -(whether you recieve it or not- which is of course, your choice)- that the same God and Savior who created our pets that bring us comfort, joy and laughter- and who sends rain on the just and the unjust, provides us sunshine every morning, and rest at night- is still alive and well and reaching out to all who are hurting, grieving, and afraid. He is not the one causing all this misery. He gave mankind authority over the world- and what we are seeing is not the work of God- but of evil people who think they are God.
Take heart people of God- Know that He holds you in His hand and no-one can snatch you out of His hand. Guard your hearts. Forgive those who hurt you so that You Heavenly Father can forgive you. If you feel like the hurt is so deep, you can’t forgive- ASK the Holy Spirit to empower you, and believe me, He will. He delights in those who love Him. And He will see you safely through. Hold fast your confession of faith. He is Faithful!
And to all who follow this blog- Thank you for not giving up in my absences. I love every one of you – believers, or not. And I pray for you all to prosper in the middle of it all. If you have a prayer request, Please let me know in the comment section.
Too many people are burdened by anxiety, stress, and grief- and cats are the cure.
Our Can Opener has had her paws full lately. And everywhere we look we hear bad reports and see a lot of anxious or grieving people. The Can Opener herself is still grieving- and so is her sister. But they know of several things that really help- (we’ll talk about those later)- but guess what? We cats are great therapists!
From the beginning time, humans have seen that their cats make them smile, bring them warmth and comfort, and give them a reason to get up in the morning. That’s because if they don’t get up in the morning, their cats will eat their donuts before they can have a chance to.
But besides serving as your faithful alarm clocks (to remind you of our 3 am feeding schedule), and helping you avoid those un-necessary calories in those donuts that you always regret eating later, cats are great for your mental health in a ton of other ways.
Grab your coffee and get ready to learn!
We help you stay on the Light Side. And help you learn what cookies are worth our your time.
We give you ideas for reining in those two-legged noise machines when you’re driving.
We’re great at keeping secrets.
We help you control those unruly pets.
And we’re always willing to sample your cooking- even when it’s a little “RARE.”
We keep your melons from rolling off the counter while you’re putting the groceries away. You’re welcome.
And we remind you to recycle those big boxes that you keep tripping over. This one’s MINE.
How to Train your Humans 