Grateful for Food and Home (TY – 8)

The bare necessities such as food and shelter are things most of us take for granted; yet, it is very important that we appreciate the food we have to eat and the home we have to protect us from the outdoor environment. I deeply appreciate having nutritious meals daily. My husband and I almost always express thanksgiving before each meal no matter where we are (whether it be at home, at a restaurant or visiting friends or family). I find it really brings importance and satisfaction to our meals. The nourishment we receive is acknowledged and appreciated.

Our home provides so much more than just protection and shelter. It provides security and many comforts for which I am deeply grateful. Our home, like most in the United States (that I am aware of) has indoor plumbing and electricity. We have heating and air conditioning and adequate space for our needs. I feel so blessed to have a home, especially when I am aware there are many in our world who are without any form of shelter. Thoughts and appreciation for having a home too often come after natural disasters, when we realize how vulnerable we are. My heart will always be grateful for each day in which we have healthy meals and a comfortable home.

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What Do Others Think Of You?

What others think of you is none of your business. The only thing that is important is what you think of yourself.
~ Dr. Angela Kowitz Orobko

What makes us wonder what others think of us? Is it our need to be loved? Is it the fear of being alone? The ironic thing about it, we attract loved ones into our lives when we can let go of the concern of how others think of us. We can relax and be ourselves. People enjoy being around other people who are confident and not concerned about what others think of them, which ultimately invites gossip….”did you know he said this about you; and, she thinks this about you?”

Oh, sure, who doesn’t enjoy getting praise and compliments, but, does it really matter what others think of you? As long as you are true to your character, your talents, your passions, then the opinions of others does NOT matter. Simply be genuine, authentic and honest with yourself. Be the best you know how to be. Do what you love and delight in your being. The only important thing is how you think about yourself, your level of confidence and your self-esteem. Furthermore, after all is said and done, you are the one who has to live with yourself. It is your life. Enjoy it.

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Nourishment for the Heart and Soul

As food is nourishment for the body; love, kindness, and interaction with people, nature, art and music are nourishment for the soul. ~ Dr. Angela Kowitz Orobko

Our souls need nourishment as much as our bodies do. Unfortunately many of us, me included, have used food to comfort our souls, when it really it is crying out for love, kindness, interaction with people, nature, art and music. When we were children, too often ice cream, candy and cookies were used as rewards, when hugs and attention would have provided the best nourishment to our spirit. Each of us need a daily dose of self-love and kindness, whether it be in the form of affirmations or simply giving ourselves time to relax, have fun and joyful experiences, pamper our bodies and get a full (night’s) sleep every day.

Interaction with people is also important to nourish one’s soul. Getting out in public provides one with opportunities to socialize and to help others, through simple and small, but very important acts of love and kindness. One’s own spirit is lifted when one can make another smile. Sharing the gift of time with others is one of the best ways to nourish both our spirit as well as the spirits of others. Jesus did this throughout His lifetime (and beyond). He was and continues to be food and nourishment for the weak in spirit. His love and his kindness has filled the void in the lives of thousands in His lifetime and now millions.

Spending time outdoors among the trees, plants, flowers, birds and other animals nurtures the spirit. When people actively listen, watch, and are fully present in nature to see, hear and feel all the wonderful sights, sounds and sensations of nature, their souls are lifted.  What is more lovely than hearing birds singing, frogs croaking, and crickets chirping? Who doesn’t enjoy seeing butterflies dancing and squirrels playing? The feel of a gentle breeze and drizzle of a summer shower has a way of positively touching one’s soul. Nature reconnects people to their spirits.

Art and music engage the spirit, encouraging and evoking feelings. The beat of a drum, the lull of a flute, the colors of a painting, the movement of a dance (just to name a few) satiate and nourish our spirits. Whether we are observing or performing art and music, our souls are filled. Art and music comfort us, as does love, kindness, people and nature. The next time you sense a bit of a void in your life, consider taking time for yourself, go out and interact with others and nature, and engage your heart with art and music. This food for your soul will nourish you spirit (without calories).

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