One step at a time

Whatever I do often begins with one step, one word, etc. – but, a beginning often requires a conscious action on my part.  The older I get, the more I “think before speaking” and some people (aka, my family) may wonder if that is really true.  I have also attempted to apply the “listen before speaking” methods when I just want to blurt out my thoughts, expressions, opinions and even my frustrations with circumstances I may face daily.

Blogging is something I have wanted to do for a very long time and yet I have found it to be somewhat restrictive lately.  I, like you, listen to news – local and worldwide.  My job revolves around areas of the world that keep my antenna up and alert to what is happening in far off places.  Locally, I am attentive to areas that could be at risk for where I may be traveling, shopping, dining,  to avoid dangers or delays.

It is in the vein of what is happening around me that I keep wondering what “one step” can I take to make a difference.  Making a difference is not intended to impart my opinions and values on you but to show you that I can accept differences and we can co-exist.  Our world seems to be screaming for people to take one step towards another to ease burdens – whether physical, emotional, political, financial, culturally…….

Frankly, I would find this world a little boring if everyone thought, acted , believed like me.  It is in the differences that are in “my world” that make me appreciate my family, friends, co-workers, neighbors, church, etc.  My perspectives on life are challenged with the diversity of my world and I believe the exposure to differences allow me to be more understanding and appreciative of those who cross my path.

Let me just close today, without addressing the events that have me pondering, I plan to take a step and stand boldly on my convictions that differences are OK as long as  words and actions do not cause harm to another.  That is a broad caveat to put on a simple statement – however, if I practice the basic fundamentals of life to love my neighbors as myself, be kind one to another, etc., the question remains to ponder, why is there so much dissension and conflict?