Small Things Count

Kids outgrow last year’s sneakers?  Shop for new ones that use recycled rubber, hemp, eco-suede, organic cotton, sustainable rayon made from bamboo shell and lining, and water-based glue.  And the old, grungy sneakers?  Let Nike turn them into material to surface running tracks and basketball courts (take them to a Nike Outlet).

[For more easy, money-saving, Eco-friendly tips, download a FREE copy of Green Riches: Help the Earth & Your Budget. Go to www.Smashwords.com/books/ view/7000, choose a format, and download to your computer or e-book device. Or download a free copy from your favorite e-tailer.]

Today’s Thursday Thought quote could lead to an attitude adjustment in many people.

Pardon the repeat posting of several weeks ago, but since then I’ve become aware of how few people have heard about this. Because this is the start of National Mental Health Awareness Week, I though it bears repeating.

In 2020, Congress started a new number to help people experiencing a mental health crisis. It’s part of the already-existing National Suicide Prevention Lifeline but is easier and quicker to access.

If you yourself or someone close to you is having a mental health crisis, call or text 988.

Experiencing my husband’s long illness and death reminded me of the importance of the human touch.  His fingers grazing mine when he needed something from the bedside table he couldn’t reach.  His smile as I rubbed his feet while we talked, with me doing most of the talking.  Mutual reassurance at 3 A.M. when I’d hear irregular breathing, lay a hand on his chest, and feel the pattern change to calmness.  That little current flowing between us as we held hands for our morning prayers, even after the actual words came only through my lips. Hugs of family and friends that brought healing tears and pushed away fears.  And all their cheek-kisses, back caresses, adjusting wayward strands of our hair, finger massages, and quiet hand-holding for both of us and for each other.

People ask, “Is there’s anything I can do?”  They don’t realize that their caring touch brought him and me so much comfort and encouragement.  I’m convinced that we’ve been given a body so we can minister to each other through the grace of a simple human touch.

This struck my funny and serious bones simultaneously. Here’s my Thursday Thought for today: