Compassionate Serving

Where has the time gone?!!  I see my last post was last year on this weekend!  It was all about One Winter's Night and the impact that the children had on me!  Just to update that!  Edward one of the children that I wrote about and he participated this year again with his own box!  He raised $1000 and was so proud, as well he should be!  It is awesome to see a child with such compassion to those who struggle in life. 

Edward and I share that compassion.  And it was passed down to me through my parents and grandparents.  It has to come from the inside and following through on your gut instincts.  I was always raised to help those who may need a helping hand.  I will never forget the evening after a Little League game when my dad stepped in to stop a fight between teenagers.  It was scary in my young mind, but he was so brave to me!  And he continued to show that compassion when even in the '60s he would hire men who'd just came out of jail and needed a job. We'd make sure that we visited elderly persons from our church. There were so many examples that my parents gave me that I need to follow their examples in my life.

Missions work always interested me.  As a child we would learn about different places around the world where they were not as privileged as us, and how we can help them with money or bandage rolls or shoe boxes with school supplies. I felt compelled to help them.  Even in our own communities our mission work can happen.  I have always supported empty tomb by delivering groceries to those in need. Staying in a box or up all night to support the homeless was a great way to help. Serving on City Council and observing where our City has needs then being able to give assistance has been awesome for me!  It's one of the best ways I know to serve others!

Being able to be that voice for those who aren't always heard is the most exciting thing for me!  I feel that is one of the gifts that I have been given, not only at this point in time but for my whole life. I feel that it isn't something that you can learn, but something that is inside of you!  I have seen that in me and now I have seen that in Edward!

The future looks bright with children like Edward paying it forward!

One Winter NIght

The story for me this year has been two-fold.  I have personally gotten to know a few of our homeless men and heard about their struggles. I wanted to raise awareness for their plights. Plus the actual night that we stay on the street collecting donations I have been touched by the empathy of children who want to help the homeless.  I have to say that those children have had the biggest impact on me.  Last year, one of my preschool students and his family volunteered to stand on the corners with signs asking cars to stop and donate.  I have no idea of their success, but they felt that it was worthy of their time.  They stayed three hours and this was a family of five with the children ranging in age from 3-13!  They even came back this year to volunteer in a different way, but were there nonetheless.  Those parents are really teaching their children the value of helping those less fortunate that you cannot learn in any textbook!

The other child that touched me this year was a boy who later I found out was named Edward.  Edward is eight and not even from Champaign.  He was there with his mother standing on the corner with his sign, too.  Then later he got a big ziplock bag that the participants were given to collect donations and he and his mom walked up and down the sidewalks along Neil.  When I first met Edward he was so proud to tell me that he had about $40!  From then on any money that I collected I waited for Edward to add to his donations!  Eventually, he raised about $100!  That was awesome!  The pride that he showed was the love that he had inside for those that he was trying to help.  About 11:00 he came by my box and asked where the other girls were that had been with me.  I said I didn't know, but that one had already left.  He said that he would then sit and wait for the other one!  I don't know why he wanted to wait, but it was so sweet that he had made friends while collecting. We convinced him that it was a bit chilly to wait and maybe he should turn in his donations as it was getting late! I didn't see Edward any more that night.  But his kindhearted soul and his mother's willingness to follow him as he did what he felt was the most he could do will stay with me. 

It is with Edward's spirit that all of us could bring to life that which can make a difference in anything that we set our sights on.  We don't always have to have the most or be the biggest or be the first.  It's getting out there and just doing what we can with who we are that will make the difference in the lives of others.  And it might just make a change in you, too!

More on New Chapters...

One thing that I do best is think!  And I have been known to "overthink" things!  Nooooo!  But those who know me know this is true!  Well, something happened while I was thinking today.  I came to an understanding about how to accept New Chapters.  As difficult as it is sometimes to move forward, I found that remembering the good things worked!  At least for today.....

New Chapters

The exciting part about life is change.  Change keeps life from becoming dull and routine.  Change can produce the whole range of emotions.  We cannot predict change.  We cannot know how someone else's change is going to affect us.  What we do know is that we have to ride the waves of change.  Know that we cannot change anything but ourselves.  Change is going to happen and how we deal with it when it happens makes the difference.  Know that if we are open to accepting the change that happens around us or to us, act on the change if we need to, and do what we can to move forward positively will make all the difference.  I continue to appreciate those in my life who produce these emotions about change.  Without them I would be just routine.  Sometimes the change aches, but it's better to feel.

So.... bring it, change!  I'll deal with it!

It's not about the past, and it's not about the future, its about taking this moment you're living in right now, and making it count.

True Connections Are There Whether We See Them Or Not...

Wow!  I think I can finally see Spring around the corner!  Walking today reminded me about how in winter trees and the nature world look dead...no leaves, no flowers, so cold.  But today is the first day I see so many signs that our neck of the woods is coming out of dormancy...warmth, buds on the trees, daffodils, crocus, hyacinths, and birds singing!  They may look dead in winter, but actually there is a lot going on that we can't see on the inside or underground! I can hardly wait for spring and see the full bloom!

This all got me to thinking of how my connections can lay dormant for a period of time and I don't see activity.  Have I missed an email?  A text? A call?  I could not function without those connections!  And some dormancy can last for a day, two days, a week, a month or more before I need to pick up the activity. 

Today reminded me that even though I connect at different times with different people and may not "see" activity, connections are still active and I need to be patient!  A period of "winter" can be any time before "spring" comes and the connection is in "full bloom" again!

And that makes me happy!

Who's Your Catcher?

     At the funeral of one of my best friend's mother, the minister spoke about how he researched trapeze acts at the circus.  They always fascinated him and he wanted to know more.  You don't hear much about trapeze acts in a funeral message, so it intrigued me.  What he learned was the interesting part to me!  One would normally think that it's the fllyer doing tricks in the air that is the most important part of the act.  But, in reality, the catcher is the most important person.  We may all gawk at the flyer for his/her abilities to tumble in mid-air.  But if he/she doesn't have a person on the other end to catch him/her, it is all for naught.  They have to trust that that person will be there to catch them.  Trusting is the key word here.

     I find myself being the one who is "flying through the air" taking chances.  And I am so grateful for those around me who "catch" me!  I may go out on a limb, but, fortunately, it hasn't broken!  Learning to trust has been a process and doesn't come easily. Luckily, trusting is a two-way street and I hope those I trust know that I hold their trust just as securely. I cannot go through life sitting still.  I need to keep swinging on that trapeze.  So this post is dedicated to those who are at the other end "catching" me and holding my trust.  We can't go it alone.

     May we always be open to be the "catcher" when someone is flying through the air and has "let go"!  They may not be expecting you to be their "catcher", but do it anyway.  You never know when it is going to be your turn to be the "flyer"!  Sometimes the best friendships are made that way!

My Take on Excellence

     Wow!  The summer has flown past and I have loved all the sunshine!  I am totally looking forward to Fall and the new school year.  Summer has been a little laid back for me, but I'm gearing up for the future!  It has provided me with the opportunity to set new goals for myself.  I usually don't plan too far ahead, but now it's different.  And exciting!

     Back to the present...I heard a quote yesterday about "excellence" that said it can be obtained "...by caring more than others think is wise.  By risking more than others think is safe.  By expecting more than others think is practical..."  (There isn't anyone attributed to this quote, but it hit home to me.)  "Excellence" doesn't mean perfection to me.  People are never going to be perfect.  But when we lead our lives in ways that show caring, risking, expecting then there are opportunities for excellence to show through.  We can have those attributes in our daily lives without being trapeze artists or The Evil Knevils of the world.  Sure, some professions are naturally going to have more risks, but that doesn't mean that all of us can't stick our necks out if an opportunity presents itself and we need to act on it.   

     I want to go through life with no regrets or what ifs.  Life provides too many opportunities to form friendships and meet new people to miss anything.  Even a "Good Samaritan" act like making a food delivery can be a springboard to friendship.  In order to receive, one must be out there.  You have to "break out of your cocoon"!  "Serendipity" is another word used to describe experiences that happen from the unexpected.  All these cliches and phrases help form my life.  And it is those around me that make it happen!

     Strive for excellence!  Take that risk!  Care!  Expect that great things will happen for you!  Trust me, they will!

    

Get out of the rut!

Something that was said by the priest at church yesterday rang true to me.  Sometimes we get in a rut and don't think that life has anything new to offer us.  I have not really followed that line of thinking because each day provides new opportunities to reach out or to connect.  But one has to be open to those possibilities and be ready when it happens.  Sometimes the opportunity happens when we aren't looking!  And those can be the most fun! 

Being on Council has provided me with more opportunities than I can count!  Social media opens doors for connecting that I never would have dreamed of.  But the communication has to be a two-way street.  There is no connection if you are not open to new ideas or thoughts or people.  New people come into your life and can bring new perspectives that totally make life exciting!  Life has so much to offer past the four walls of your comfort zone.  Taking a chance exploring outside those walls is what keeps me going!  There is so much to learn and so many teachers out there for me to learn from!  (And I'm not talking about the classroom!) 

Open up!  Make yourself available!  That new "Best Friend" could be out there just waiting to meet you!    Get ready for the adventure and you will be surprised where that path can lead....

The sky's the limit!

With a little help from my friends!

What? It's been since February since I wrote? Where's my prodder been?!!

I think I'm turning a corner this Spring. So many situations have surrounded me and through them all, friends have given advice that has allowed me insight to move forward. I've been able to grasp ideas and experiences in ways that make sense to me. I feel like I have more voice to give to issues or concerns when I need to speak up. I know, I know. I am usually a little shy (really), and it has taken me a long time to be able to speak more aggressively in public. It is because I feel I need to advocate for those who aren't able to for themselves. Because others share their views and feelings with me, I feel that I need to step out of my shell and speak up. Stand up for what is right, in my opinion. Many thanks to you who have nurtured this in me and given me ideas on how to be effective. I hope that I will be so going forward.

It's through our connections with others that the most impact can be felt. It's Jackie Robinson Day in MLB and here's a quote that is on the outside of Dodger Stadium from him, "A life is not important except on the impact it has on other people's lives." I like to think that each one of my friends fits that quote in the positive impact that you've had on mine. We can have fun, but yet know how to get down to business and get 'er done!

Friends, you're the best!

Land of the Free, Home of the Brave

Reflecting on Lincoln's presidency and the tumultuous times he served, I am reminded of our own brave soldiers who have fought for freedom. The picture that I have chosen to include is of PFC Danny Kimme, son of Champaign police officer, Doug Kimme. He was killed in the line of duty almost four years ago to this date. I took this picture of his sketching at the Illinois State Fair in 2010. An artist made sketches of all the soldiers who had fallen in the line of duty and the display surrounded four walls of the tent. It was a solemn and awesome tribute to the bravery exemplified by the soldiers.

It is isn't just those who go to war who are brave. We just have to look within our own lives to find it. We are surrounded by everyday people who show bravery all the time! "Brave" doesn't have to mean just one thing. It's anyone facing a challenge head on. Of course, those who put their lives on the line for us each day, as in our police officers and fire fighters, are the logical persons, but look around. Look at the baby who is taking his/her first steps. Look at the child who starts preschool or day care for the first time. Look at those who begin new treatments for diseases. Look at the wives, husbands, and families of those who go into battle or who protect us daily. Look at those making choices for others that may or may not be popular. Look at anyone making a choice that will affect their life's path. I could go on and on....All of these things take courage. Who in your life exemplifies courage? Maybe it's you! We have to be brave and trust that the choices we make will be the best ones for us.

After spending more time learning how officers train to keep us protected, it brings gratitude to my heart. PFC Danny Kimme did not have a chance to return. But many solders have and are using their skills now to keep the citizens of our communities safe. Even without going to war, we all can find someone that has shown bravery in this world we call "life". Acknowledge them! Give them kudos! Most importantly, pay it back.

Where's the line?

What does it mean to call someone a friend? Where do you have to draw the line from personal to business? These questions are important to consider when I think of my friendships. As a person, am I being congruent between my real friendships and those actions I take because of professional duties? There can be a disconnect there.

That's the struggle sometimes. I have had to make some difficult decisions that have brought serious consequences. I have had to trust others' confidences to me that they are also doing right. In this world today, it is hard to tell, but my gut has to lead me. I am grateful to those who share their trust with me and from that have formed meaningful friendships. Even though we move through the struggle, if we are moving for the right reasons, it will be worth it.

My nature is to be a supporter. I think we all want to be positive and see the world through rose-colored glasses. Unfortunately, life gets in the way! I have learned that I have had to choose where to place my support. It has to be where I think it's right. Sometimes, others disagree with me. That's ok. What a dull world this would be if we all agreed on everything. I wouldn't ever learn anything!

My core values will never change, especially the Golden Rule..."Do unto others as you would have them do unto you." I want to treat people the way that I expect to be treated.... with honesty. If someone betrays that trust, then our friendship is changed.

So, I guess what I'm trying to say is that there isn't always a line. Life cannot be black and white. Like the waves in the sand, the line is always changing, but the water's wet and sometimes brings stuff with it. Life moves forward, but it's not always predictable. We have to have some grey areas to maneuver, but within that maneuvering you have to keep your core values of being one who can be trusted, loyal, and honest. It's your reputation. Guard it and make sure that it is the reputation you want to follow you. You have to keep your friends' backs too. Without that what's the point of being a friend?

Keep open to listening to different opinions and supporting what you feel best matches your own. Without them the world would be a dull place!

Others inspire me...

Walking seems to prompt me to write! With the unusually warm weather for January, it was great to be out walking without freezing! Happy New Year!

Just a short thought came to mind...I was wondering how I get through some of the tough decisions that I have to make. It came to me that it's because of the people that surround me. People who do not shy away from hard decisions themselves. People who make sacrifices for others. People who show strength in the face of adversity. People who have taken risks when it is easier to remain quiet. People who have shown me how to wear the teflon that is sometimes needed.

To these people I say, "Thanks!" That's not enough, I know. But I hope that the way I lead my life will show you.

2011 Reflection

Wow! I have really been busy these last two months and I had better get one last blog in before 2011 ends!

I've been reflecting about this year, 2011. What a year it has been! I am all about relationships and this year has been amazing for them for me! My profession as a teacher has always limited the scope of relationship-building and was very hard to continue relationships past the school year, with one or two exceptions. But relationships that I have formed while on Council tend to last. 2011 has really introduced me to people that I never would have met and it is so exciting! Just when people my age are beginning to wind their careers down, I am looking forward to the future and the promise of newness. What is lying ahead? I could never have predicted the outcomes of this year!

Not only have I made new friendships, but many from before have grown. Situations change and with those changes come new perspectives. When friends count on each other and have a trusting shoulder to lean on, the connection is stronger. I feel so fortunate to have those connections. As changes happen, I hope that I will accept change and move forward. Sometimes that's hard for me, but I won't digress....

This blog is about the relationship-building of 2011. I learn something or glean something from everyone I meet. It is the human psyche phenomenon where the chemistry between people causes that chemical reaction we call friendship. I cannot live without it. When it is mutually valued then everything should be done to keep it alive. In this day and age of technology, when physical presence isn't always possible, then a tweet, facebook message, or text can often keep friends in touch. Many times, just a simple text or tweet has put a smile on my face. Those can tide the connection over until the face-to-face happens.

2012 will be a year of continuing to cultivate relationships! Who wants lunch?!!!

Not once, but twice...

In the priest's message yesterday I heard two things. Usually, the message isn't that riveting, but yesterday's spoke about friends in a way that made me take notice. The first was when he said that we don't know why, but some friends just by being there and listening make a difference. Just by their willingness to listen unconditionally, our hearts are lightened. That phenomenon always puzzled me. How is it that just someone's presence without even speaking makes a difference? Human emotions have so many mysteries... But to have those connections in your life is something to treasure because they are rare.

Second, sometimes we have that one person who sees something in us that we don't see in ourselves. With their encouragement we pursue something that we might not have otherwise. This is exactly what happened with me. Teaching has always been my passion because it came naturally to me. I love it! Being encouraged to go into politics was new. Never thought about it until someone suggested it and encouraged me. As it turns out, they were right! Their encouragement and friendship to this day has been something that I have cherished. So I am extremely grateful for that friend.

All the art of living lies in a fine mingling of letting go and holding on.
- Havelock Ellis

Nothing Like Friends!

It's close to birthday time, and as I was walking today, I was thinking of what an awesome year this has been! I've met challenges and feel stronger for them now. Some are still on my plate and new ones are on the horizon. But most of all, my relationships with my friends has been strengthened. Meeting new people who have instantly become friends, growing the bonds with already friends, and deepening bonds with the closest friends has made me grateful for each and every one!

As the picture illustrates, sometimes there's that one friend (or two) who stands out in a sea of friends. Being that friend is an awesome responsibility. It takes a special relationship to build that bond. It's one of trust and time. It doesn't happen overnight. It's cultivated. It takes two to make that happen. But as time goes by and it gets tested and survives, then you know that you have something special with that person.

Here's to all of my friends, and to those out there who will be! Cheers!

Serendipity X 2

Over the last week, I have had experiences that have just come out of the blue and been soooo cool! I call them my Serendipity moments. It's when life happens when you least expect it and it has an impact on you! The first really awesome one happened last Saturday at the Summer Youth Development Program ceremony. I saw a name on the poster board assignment that one of the students had made. I knew that it could only be the daughter of my third grade student. And it was! My student was even there! I had reconnected with her a few years ago after 25 or so years. Life had not always been kind to her, but she is on the right path now. Two of her children had completed the program successfully and it was wonderful to see the impact that program had on their family.

Tonight I had another blast from the past! Through my Lincoln Series organization I met a woman from Alton. My mother was born and grew up there. I was trying to find out if she may know any of my cousins, but I have lost contact with them and didn't have married names. So we struck out in that regard. But I did remember that name of the street where my grandmother lived. It was only about eight houses long and was on a hill. (Almost everywhere in Alton is on a hill!) Well, her aunt and uncle live on that street and have for years! They probably knew my grandma! I was so excited to talk with her about the house and that street. My grandma died in '69, so it has been awhile since I visited there.

The house was very poor. When I was little it had a dirt floor in the lower floor, so they could bring in the coal. The bathroom only had a toilet and a shower head, so you could sit and take a shower at the same time. There was only one real bedroom and the kitchen was on the lower floor too. But my mom's family grew up there, all five kids and Grandma. It was so different from our own house, but I loved to visit. Grandma always made us feel like royalty and fixed chicken and noodles, which were the best!

Just meeting someone who knows that house made me feel an instant connection to her. It brought back all the wonderful memories of my childhood down at Grandma's house. Like the old cliche says, she may have been poor, but she was rich in love. I could feel it!

It was definitely "a small world" moment tonight!

Cheers!

I am a milestone kind of person, mainly because dates stick in my head from years ago through the present. Those are mostly birthdates of friends, relatives and even school children. Now more keep adding to the list! Other milestones of anniversary of events that have been important to me also stick in my head. Sometimes, I feel it is a curse to have all these dates in my brain because I don't think that others who share them remember them as I do. I usually don't say anything because I don't want them to feel bad that they don't remember like I do. Or they don't remember my birthday like I remember theirs. But I really don't mind that. It's the "It's more blessed to give than receive." aspect for me.

A five-year milestone happened for me this summer. It's been five years since I started my new adventure away from the full-time employment at CCNH. I loved working there and being with the children, residents, and other employees. But I feel that I am living the dream being on City Council and working for the whole City. The new relationships that I've formed and all the new people that I've had the privilege of meeting have given new meaning to me. The world of politics has been exciting and one that I have enjoyed enormously.

This new path that I've embarked on is one that knows no end. It has twists and turns that I never imagined. I'm grateful to those who join me, however long, and encourage, teach and support. It's all an adventure in life. I don't want to miss out!

Doing the Right Thing

On this Mother's Day I am reminded of how my mom would have been so proud of me. She missed so many milestones in our family with both grandchildren graduating from college and becoming successful adults. Her grandson's marriage and subsequent great-grandchildren would have been so happy for her. She is the one who always gave me encouragement and praise, especially growing up. Both of my parents and grandparents set the examples for doing the right thing, even when it is difficult. So as I reflect back, I have tried to follow their examples by doing what I feel is the right thing in whatever circumstance is before me.

The hard part of that is whose view is the right thing! I have my own views that I draw from many years of living. Then there are others who try to share their views and feel that theirs is the only right thing. I received an anonymous letter in the mail yesterday from someone who believes that I should only pay attention to their view of the election and not follow the new Mayor's initiatives. I have trouble with that. What if new ideas are good and help a City to progress? Where is keeping an open mind? Isn't part of being a leader listening to others' opinions and thoughts then acting as you feel is the right way? What if by working together we can move the City forward?

Sometimes doing the right thing is being unselfish. Sometimes that is easy and sometimes, not so easy. That's when I draw on the "How would I feel if someone did that for me?" Then it is easy to do the right thing. And many times, I have felt the unselfishness of others when I am the recipient of those good deeds. As moms that is what we do. As a teacher that is what I do. To know that others learn from those examples, it's gratifying.

At the end of the day, doing the right thing for me is the only thing that matters. It's like Rotary's Four-Way Test: Is it the truth? Is it beneficial to all concerned? Is fair to all concerned? And, will it build goodwill and friendships? It may not always jive with the other person's "right thing", but I cannot walk in their shoes.

Cheers to my mom who taught me to "Do the right thing!" And I have never regretted it!

Just me!

Politics is always interesting to me. Whether it be in a job or government, one has to be cognizant of the fact that not everybody thinks the same about your character. When I held my position at the county nursing home, I always upheld the highest standards and did my best to respect the other employees, residents, children, and their families. But not everyone viewed it the same way! Through the four years that it took me to receive my Masters' degree in Guidance and Counseling, I became accepting of that fact instead of continually beating myself up for what I should or could have done differently trying to please everyone. During the closing process of the daycare center, I made a speech at the County Board saying that it was ok to close our center for the good of the whole county. We had a great almost 16-year run and there were no regrets. That was five years ago this month. Recently, I had a person comment to me how he remembered that speech even now. I was surprised because it was just me.

The political campaigning is in full bloom right now. When everybody surrounding campaigns is being put under the microscope for their actions or inactions, it is more important than ever to be aware. For me, it's not hard. I have always wanted to take the high road and treat others just as I would like to be treated. I see no point in spreading rumors that aren't true. I try to look at the positive characteristics in people and make my associations accordingly. Does that mean that I don't talk or meet with others who I may disagree with? No, that would be very narrow-minded of me. I feel that you can always learn something by talking to others. Does that mean that people should jump to conclusions about my beliefs or convictions or loyalties? No. It's just me wanting to know others better. By knowing people, we can remove the barriers to communication that can sometimes exist.

I will say that when others may attempt to cast negative aspersions against me, I will not be a hypocrite and support their actions. I will stand up for myself and decide which direction to take that will show my conscience. If people notice that, I'm glad. It's just me.

I am far from perfect and have made many mistakes, but through it all I hope that my positive contributions will outnumber the negative!

It's just me!

Politics in Motion!

City Girl is long overdue! So much has been happening in my "City" that I've been neglecting my blogging. I will confess that politics took most of my time in January. But I love them! Watching the process play out is the best. Meeting with people and talking with people is what life's about. Everyone has opinions and wants to share them. Everyone thinks that their opinions are the "right" ones. It takes much listening and contemplation to decide which match my own. By listening and opening my mind to new possibilities, sometimes I change my mind. Usually, that change feels much better.

Many, many issues are before me now that have consumed so much time. Since they impact the whole City, I have to get it right in my mind. The decisions that are facing the City cannot be made lightly, nor quickly. I hope by talking to as many people as possible and getting all the facts that I need, I will make the tough decisions without second thoughts. Having so many people who trust me to do that makes getting it right important. I know that not everyone will be happy. But I hope that they will know that I will have thoroughly vetted every possibility. I cannot thank enough those around me who give their advice and encouragement freely and with the best intentions. I appreciate it. It makes me able to move forward.

The State of Illinois' Inauguration was a highlight in my month! I had never participated before and what fun! Of course, knowing two of the elected officials personally made the events most meaningful. Attending the parties and events with good friends and my brother added to all the fun! The Capitol Building is the hub of our politics and still has me in awe of its splendor.

Democracy is for the people and by the people and I am proud to have a small part in that process! I would be remiss if I didn't acknowledge the 100th Birthday of one of our finest presidents, Ronald Reagan. Visiting his Presidential Library was awesome and standing by the piece of the Berlin Wall that had been torn down (picture, '05) reminded me of how powerful Democracy is for all!